HOMETOWN: Berea, Kentucky
GRADUATE PROGRAM: Master of Accountancy
GRADUATION YEAR: 2019

Tell me about life pre-NKU. Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Berea, Kentucky, where my family ran a small business. It was interwoven into my upbringing and responsible for my interest in pursuing business after high school.  

Did you attend NKU for your undergraduate degree(s)? If so, what year did you graduate?
I enrolled at the University of Kentucky. During my sophomore year, I joined the Kentucky Army National Guard as a Blackhawk mechanic. I graduated in 2017 and received a bachelor's in Accounting. 

Why did you choose NKU for graduate school? Is there something about your program or the university that stood out to you?
After UK, I enrolled in NKU’s Master of Accountancy Professional Track program. I wanted to further my understanding of accounting and build a foundation to start my career. The course curriculum included topics I was interested in and had not studied in undergraduate. 

Can you tell me a little about your graduate work?
My graduate work consisted of studying audit, forensic accounting, advanced accounting topics, contract law, tax research, SQL code and accounting theory. I especially enjoyed accounting theory because we followed the evolution of accounting throughout U.S. history. This helped me understand why accounting is the way it is today.

What has been your most challenging experience as a graduate student?
The most challenging experience I had in graduate school were the presentations. I have never enjoyed presentations. That sentiment carried over to my graduate work. In my last semester, I had four presentations, and it was tough for me. But I pushed through. And now, when I look back, I see my growth and my confidence in public speaking.

What do you hope to do with your graduate degree? How will your degree help you further your career?
I work at Givaudan in Cincinnati as a financial accountant. My day-to-day work involves coordination with engineers around the U.S. to capitalize assets, participation in closing the books every month, preparation of management reports, analyzing internal records and helping to insure accounting policies are being followed. I enjoy where I work because I am constantly challenged and given room to grow.

What is your greatest passion?
My greatest passion is lifelong learning. 

Describe NKU in one word.
Inclusive. Classes consisted of people from all work/life backgrounds.

Tell me anything else about yourself and/or NKU that you want folks to know.
The faculty genuinely care about the success of their students and apply real-world experience to coursework. After graduating from the MAcc Program, I was offered a role beyond my expectations. An opportunity like this would not have happened without the education and experience I received from NKU.