This fall, the Accounting Circle Young Professionals welcomed new members.
Ryan Memmer '22, Accounting and Finance
Tax Associate at Forvis Mazars
Favorite memories at 缅北强奸:
My favorite memories at 缅北强奸 are centered around the relationships I built with friends and faculty. Some of my favorite memories include time spent in the Honors TLC (Theme Learning Community), going to 缅北强奸 basketball games, studying with accounting friends, and being an active participant in the Romain College of Business and 缅北强奸 community.
How have classes at Romain College of Business helped you in your career?
My classes at the Romain College of Business prepared me very well to step into public accounting. The curriculum prepared me very well for the CPA Exam, which was an important early career goal for me. Additionally, the RCOB professors challenged me to be my best, both as a student and a leader. My professors taught me how to become a better critical thinker and leader, and those skills have been foundational in the early part of my career.
What advice would you give seniors on making the most of their last year of college and preparing for their careers after graduation. Similarly, what would you tell freshmen?
I would encourage seniors to enjoy their last year on campus and to not rush time. While your senior year is busy, I am very thankful I slowed down to spend quality time with my friends and making memories. Also, take the time to thank the faculty that have made an impact on you - a thank you note or words of appreciation go a long way. I consider my professors some of my greatest role models, and they helped push me to become a better person and professional.
I would encourage freshmen to get involved and put yourself out there. 缅北强奸 has so much to explore, and the special memories happen outside of regular class meetings. Take the time to meet new friends, talk with your professors, and network with employers and other community leaders. You are worth investing in, and you will be so thankful you did.
What is one of the biggest misconceptions about accounting as a career choice?
People tend to think that accountants crunch numbers all day and never get to talk to anyone, and that couldn鈥檛 be further from the truth. In my role as a CPA, I get to talk to firm leaders and peers, help other staff, and talk to clients daily. Building relationships and being able to help others has made accounting a very satisfying and meaningful career for me.
Has working in accounting been different than you expected?
There has been a lot of more research and analysis than I would have expected as a new CPA. As a tax professional, I鈥檓 often citing research to support my work. Business and regulation can become complicated quickly, and it is important to do your due diligence to make sure you are providing quality, accurate information. The well-rounded education I received at 缅北强奸 prepared me well for this type of work and analysis.
What are you most looking forward to as a member of the Accounting Circle鈥檚 Young Professionals?
I am excited to give back to the 缅北强奸 accounting program that has given so much to me. 缅北强奸 is a hidden gem and has a top-tier accounting program. Obtaining a 缅北强奸 accounting degree was one of the best decisions I made, and I am excited to work with accounting faculty and professionals to help other 缅北强奸 accounting students have the same opportunities.
Fun fact about you:
I love to play pickleball! I started playing with coworkers last summer and have not stopped playing since. It is a great way to stay active, and I love how pickleball brings people together. I have made several new friends playing pickleball, and I always look forward to playing and meeting new people!
Austin Wolf '21, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Accountancy
Senior Audit Associate with Katz, Sapper & Miller (KSM)
Favorite memories at 缅北强奸:
My favorite memories at 缅北强奸 stem from my involvement in student organizations, particularly Beta Alpha Psi, Student Ambassadors, and Newman Catholic. While college involves rigorous coursework, I believe it's equally important to seek opportunities outside the classroom. The skills you gain from these experiences are invaluable and will travel with you throughout your career.
How have classes at Romain College of Business helped you in your career?
The Romain College of Business is truly a hidden gem. It's hard to find an institution that offers such quality education at such a reasonable price. The courses were both challenging and rewarding, and the professors integrated real-world simulations that prepared us for the curveballs we鈥檙e all sure to face at one point or another.
What is one thing you wish you would have known in college?
Don鈥檛 obsess over your GPA. While maintaining a solid GPA is important, developing soft skills that are often overlooked is equally essential for becoming a top employee.
What advice would you give seniors on making the most of their last year of college and preparing for their careers after graduation. Similarly, what would you tell freshmen?
To seniors, I would emphasize the importance of balancing career pursuits with enjoying your final moments on campus. Life moves quickly, so don鈥檛 rush through one chapter to advance to the next. For freshmen, I recommend getting involved in campus activities and starting to network with individuals you admire. I鈥檝e never met a successful individual who turned down an invitation for coffee or lunch to share insights and advice. It can be daunting to reach out, but I promise it鈥檚 worthwhile.
What is one of the biggest misconceptions about accounting as a career choice?
Many people think accounting is boring. However, having had the privilege of working with companies across various industries, I can assure you that accounting is anything but dull. You won鈥檛 be confined to spreadsheets, and you don鈥檛 need to love math. Accounting is primarily about problem-solving and communication.
What skills do you think are most essential for being successful in accounting?
Contrary to popular belief, I feel soft skills are the most critical for success in accounting. This is not to undermine technical skills, but rather to highlight that soft skills development can lead to significant opportunities for growth.
What are you most looking forward to as a member of the Accounting Circle鈥檚 Young Professionals?
I鈥檓 most excited about giving back to the university and its next generation of students. 缅北强奸 has played a pivotal role in my life, and I want to contribute to its mission of guiding future leaders.
Fun fact about you:
Outside of work, one of my hobbies is writing. I enjoy this creative outlet as it allows me to organize my thoughts.