Kevin
Graduated December 2006
Accounting
Dike, Iowa
Current job: Auditor, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Minneapolis

Why did you choose UNI?
I began my college career at a small private college as an engineering major. During the fall semester of my junior year, I took my first accounting class at my previous school. I realized I liked accounting and decided to change my major. Along with changing my major, I decided to transfer to UNI. I chose UNI because of its nationally respected accounting program and its connections to the business community.

Specifically, how did UNI's Financial Aid Office help you with your college education?
I have have had a broad range of assistance and experiences from the UNI Financial Aid Office. When I first transferred, my FAFSA results enabled me to receive Federal student loans. In addition to student loans, I knew I also wanted to work on campus. The financial aid office was hiring student advisors, and I was fortunate enough to get the job. I worked as an Advisor and Peer Counselor in the office for two years. In addition to some much needed supplementary income, my role in the office gave me an appreciation for the conscientious service of the Financial Aid staff, as well as some relevant work experience to discuss in job interviews. In the course of my job, I received Financial Aid information and advice from the staff and had the opportunity to share my knowledge with students and parents.

In addition to loans, I received a couple extremely helpful accounting scholarships. As my family and financial situation changed, I also received federal grants and lower interest loans. I also took advantage of office services such as help with consolidating my student loans.

Could you talk a little about the importance of investing in your education?
Being an accountant, concepts like return on investment and value are very important to me. I feel like I have received a bargain by getting a world class education at a very reasonable price. When I look back years from now, I think it will be apparent that college tuition and student loan payments will be the best money I ever spent. Dollar for dollar, it's hard to beat the value of a UNI education.

What was your favorite place and/or activity on campus?
I have always been a sports fanatic, so many of my favorite campus memories involve Panther Athletics. Some of the big basketball wins over intrastate rivals and intense volleyball matches were highlights. ...And the new McLeod Center only makes it better to watch. Don't tell my professors, but they would have had much better luck finding me watching the games than studying in the library.

What is your favorite memory of UNI?
It's hard to pick out one favorite UNI experience, when all of my experiences were so consistently positive. If I had to pick one, it would probably be campaigning as a candidate for Student Body Vice-President. Even though we lost, it's hard to find one experience that taught me more about UNI and what it takes to succeed in any endeavor.

Where has your UNI education taken you?
My experiences in UNI's Accounting department have involved much more than top-notch classroom learning. Between field trips, company sponsored golf outings, and career fairs, I had the opportunity to network with some of the biggest and finest employers in the world. As a direct result of these connections and a quality education, I have accepted a job offer at one of the largest accounting firms in the world. I am also currently preparing to take the CPA Examination.

What are your career/life goals?
I hope to complete the CPA exam this year and start a career in public accounting. It is too early to say whether or not I will spend my whole career in public accounting, but I know that experience will open up many other doors should I choose to go another route. More importantly, I am looking forward to many happy years with my wife, Laura (a UNI Elementary Ed Grad), and hopefully a few kids. I would love the opportunity to coach or to give back in any way.

How would you describe UNI to a current high school student?
I would say UNI brings the best of large and small schools together. My class sizes and interactions with teachers were surprisingly similar to those I had at a small private school. At the same time, UNI offers nationally recognized academics, arts, and athletic opportunities. I think UNI can be about as big or as small as you want it to be.