Accounting
Student: Debora Geneti '25
Why did you decide to study accounting?
I've always been interested in a study that included either mathematical concepts or some aspect of the business world. A major that I found to fit both criteria was accounting. I realized that this major strengthens my problem-solving abilities while at the same assists me in making business decisions that are sound.
What classes have been your favorite so far?
Financial Accounting with Michelle Li-Kuehne and Microeconomics with Robin Henagar have been two of my favorite classes so far. My Financial Accounting class was one of the most intellectually stimulating classes I have taken. It introduced me to various accounting concepts that go into the success of businesses. My Microeconomics class with Professor Henager allowed me to see the real-life effects of different economic decisions and how those decisions affect our long-term economic status.
Tell us about a unique experience or project you've worked on for your major.
In the second semester of my freshman year, I worked on a research paper on the current economic and financial status of Microsoft with my teammates. This research paper was an eye-opener regarding which major I should go with. It helped me realize that there is more to a company than what we generally assume.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in accounting?
The majority of business students hesitate to major in accounting because of its tedious work; I seldom hear about the satisfaction that comes with majoring and working in the accounting field from people simply considering it. However, accounting is a major that one can reap tremendous successes from as long as one is interested, dedicated and puts in the necessary effort. I would advise anyone considering this major to not be intimidated by it but to explore if it is something they are really interested in.
Who are three people who have made a difference for you at Whitworth?
There are multiple people that have made a difference in my life at Whitworth. Professor Craig Hinnenkamp, my business advisor who helped me make a decision on majoring in accounting, Professor Adam Neder, who taught me the importance of holding faith in the midst of the world's commotion, and Professor Michelle Li-Kuehne, who initially introduced me to the fascinating world of accounting, are some of the most influential people I met at Whitworth.
How would you describe Whitworth?
The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Whitworth is how welcoming it is. Deciding to join Whitworth as an international student, I had a fear of adapting to a new culture and meeting people with diverse cultures, ideologies and backgrounds. Whitworth, however, made me feel anything but fear. Not only did I feel accepted, but I also felt like I had found my second home. The international student committee, the professors and the general environment of Whitworth are easy to communicate with and feel more like family than anything.
Jessica Chase '23
Why did you decide to study accounting?
I have always been interested in the technical elements of business and how everything works. I was intrigued by how money flows through businesses and how things like paychecks and taxes are calculated. Accounting satisfies my analytical and meticulous brain and makes sense to me.
What are some of your favorite classes so far?
My favorite classes have been my first accounting class, Financial Accounting with Candice Correia, and the very first business class I took, Principles of Management with Cody George. These were my favorites because I enjoyed the material and the professors, both of whom have become some of my favorite professors on campus. They made the class engaging, fun and easy to understand.
Tell us about a unique experience or project you've worked on for your major.
My freshman year, I got to work with one of my accounting professors as their research assistant, giving me valuable experience looking into different accounting topics and working on essays that will be published in academic business journals.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in accounting?
Accounting plays to the strengths of anyone that likes details and can be really rewarding for any perfectionist when all the tedious work you put in finally comes together and works out. Sometimes it can get a bit messy when things don't line up initially, but part of the fun is finding solutions to make all the books balance. My advice would be to not get discouraged and to ask for help if you ever get confused. The accounting professors are so knowledgeable and helpful and love to share what they know to help you succeed.
What's your dream job?
My dream job is to work for Costco in their accounting department at their headquarter office in Issaquah, Wash.
Who has been an important connection for you at Whitworth, and why?
Adeline Grow, who is the assistant director of internships & external relations for the Whitworth School of Business, has been a valuable connection for me because she has been super helpful in getting me ready to be successful in internship and job applications. She helps students make their résumés and cover letters look professional and desirable and has so many helpful hints for whatever you want to go into and whatever stage you're at.
What is something that has surprised you about your major?
Something that has surprised me is how many sides to accounting there are. Within accounting, there are so many careers that you could go into. There's auditing, bookkeeping, taxes, payroll, internal accounting, external accounting, forensic accounting and so many others. Being an accounting major means that you have so many options once you graduate to find a fulfilling career, and there are always accounting jobs needed, so you won't need to worry about job availability after college.
Why did you choose to attend Whitworth?
I chose to attend Whitworth because it was a small college that was close enough to my home in Western Washington to be a drivable distance, but far enough away where I felt that I could be more independent from my family and start to make my own path for my life. I like that it is small because it means that each student can have more attention given to their academic concerns and goals, and you can get to know your professors more personally, which really helps in succeeding in classes and understanding course content.
Aziz Moltafet '22
Why did you decide to study accounting?
I chose accounting because I knew that there was a sense of job security and growth in the field. With my accounting degree, I can work in any industry whether it's a government entity or a corporation. My affinity for problem-solving and mathematics leveraged my abilities to help a lot of businesses with their financial problems.
What are some of your favorite classes so far?
I loved my Financial Accounting class. During my time in that class, I learned how to read financial statements and balance sheets. The skills I learned improved my financial literacy and helped me make better decisions on what securities I should invest in.
Tell us about a unique experience or project you've worked on for your major.
In my Cost Accounting class, we helped local businesses such as BeYOUtiful Bath Bombs & More with their product cost. Our class assisted the company with breaking down the cost and improving their efficiency.
What's your dream job?
My dream is to open my own accounting firm. I want to have a local firm where I would be able to help my community.
Who has been an important connection for you at Whitworth, and why?
All my professors are helping me to succeed in my academic and professional life; however, the most influential person to me is Addie Grow. She always encourages me to aim higher and do what I like. She is currently assisting me in making meaningful connections that will ultimately help me in my career.
How would you describe Whitworth?
Whitworth is the place where you grow and flourish. It is like a second family. Everyone is so full of love and I know they all have my best interest in mind. Whitworth is a place where you achieve unimaginable things.