Alex Liotta '20

Majors: Accounting – CPA Emphasis

Why this major?

Accounting runs in my family. My mother is a CPA and my grandmother was a bookkeeper for my grandfather’s construction company. It’d have been a travesty for me to have not carried on the family tradition. Furthermore, I love accounting. I love how the numbers tie. I love all of the rules. I love the satisfaction of getting a return “out the door.”

What is your career objective?

I would like to eventually become a managing partner at a large public accounting firm.

How has what you’ve learned prepared you for your future?

I have learned a great deal about the accounting process through my accounting classes. Intermediate I and II taught me the book knowledge necessary for an internship. Pre-internship seminar taught me how to network. My internship through Carroll has taught me what life in public accounting is like. The coursework at Carroll is preparing me well for my future life in public accounting.

Have you had opportunities to work closely with Carroll faculty?

Professors Kunz and Zajc are great people. As the financial/intermediate accounting tutor, I have had the opportunity to work closely with both of them extensively. It’s really a treat to see either of them out in the community and stop for a chat. It has made my accounting education a very positive experience.

What is the most memorable experience you’ve had in your education at Carroll?

My pre-internship seminar has been, by far, my most memorable experience at Carroll University. Hearing local accounting leaders talk about their experiences and having the opportunity to chat with them is really unique, and has helped me advance towards my ultimate career goal of becoming a partner. I don’t know of any other school that has a similar pre-internship class.

How has Carroll enriched your growth as a person?

My time in ENACTUS, the business club, afforded me the privilege of helping with a shoe drive for underprivileged families. I did not realize how much actually goes into something as small as a shoe drive. I will take my shoe-drive knowledge and apply it to my future charitable endeavors. My time in Young Republicans has allowed me to express my passion for politics at the university level. I have had the opportunity to meet with several great state-level political leaders. The extracurricular involvement opportunities at Carroll are extensive.

What would you say to someone considering accounting?

I would say the major is not anywhere as scary as people make it out to be. Yes, Intermediate is difficult, however, the school has plenty of resources to help you succeed. I would also recommend getting an internship as soon as possible. They count for academic credit and usually pay very well, so there is no good reason not to get one.

How has financial aid made a difference in your life?

I am quite grateful for the scholarships I have received. In addition to my extremely generous scholarship from Carroll, I am a William and Shirley Raabe accounting scholarship recipient. This scholarship is given to two accounting students yearly. My scholarships have allowed me to save extensively and invest in my future.

What’s your favorite place to study on campus?

By far the Learning Commons. I like a little noise when I study. It also allows me the opportunity to talk with other students. Tutors are also not far away. I can get help readily as I need it. It’s a unique place and I am glad it exists.

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