Senior Kaitlin Irish has her sights set on one goal – earning her Certified Public Accountant license. She says thanks to the relationships she’s built and experiences she’s had at The University of Olivet, she’ll be a CPA in no time, but most importantly, Kaitlin will graduate with a number of important assets in her corner.
After high school, Kaitlin attended a junior college for a year before realizing she wanted more from her college experience. Hailing from Grand Ledge, she was familiar with The University of Olivet and even it’s growing women’s soccer program – one of her lifelong passions. After visiting OC and connecting with coaches, players and professors, she said the transfer just felt right.
Now, Kaitlin says The University of Olivet is the perfect distance from her hometown, close enough to stay in touch with friends and family but far enough away to experience her own independence. Even better, OC’s intimate setting and small class sizes have allowed Kaitlin to meet some of her best friends and greatest mentors.
“I enjoy the smaller class sizes at OC, especially in major-required classes because you are able to make connections with professors,” Kaitlin said. “There’s 30 students or less in a class, compared to 100 or more at larger universities, which means professo rs can really get to know you.”
Future CPA
As an accounting major, access to professors is key to Kaitlin’s success. Jackie Looser, assistant professor of accounting, serves as Kaitlin’s academic adviser, but also one of her biggest supporters. She’s helping Kaitlin prepare to sit for her Certified Public Accountant exam, including keeping her on track with the rigorous requirements to do so. Next up, Kaitlin has taken on the task to complete her undergraduate career with 150 credits – 30 more than most students complete to earn a bachelor’s degree.
“I have a really great relationship with my professors, especially Professor Looser,” Kaitlin exclaimed. “She has helped me a lot with my studies and even guided me in setting career goals. I know she doesn’t have an easy role to fill, but she does a great job. All my professors have pushed me out of my comfort zone, helped me develop confidence, like walking up and talking to potential employers at job fairs, and create a strong resume.”
Kaitlin’s ultimate goal is to work in private accounting and to travel with her role. To build her resume, she’s completed two internships, one focusing on tax work at Maner Costerisan, a full-service public accounting and business advisory firm and most recently, an accounting internship at Farm Bureau Insurance. She’s even taken on the role of teacher herself, serving the campus community as an accounting tutor.
Take a Chance, You Never Know Where it Will Lead
On the soccer field, Kaitlin has developed a complimentary skill set focused around team building and learning to work with others. She’s proud to say her three best friends and roommates are also her soccer teammates, but were complete strangers just a few short years ago. Now, her advice to new students revolves around taking chances, like making new friends and becoming a student-athlete.
“Don’t be afraid to make friends and go out of your comfort zone – join a sports team, a club or anything, but try to be involved in something,” Kaitlin advised. “As a Comet, I have become who I am today. My experience has helped me grow, decide my path after college and create lifelong relationships with some pretty great people.”
The University of Olivet welcomes all types of transfer students, and prides itself on the flexibility to meet a wide range of students’ needs. Students will get individualized attention from OC’s transfer specialist and scholarship opportunities with a guaranteed form of assistance. In addition, previously earned credits are reviewed individually by faculty to ensure the maximum number of credits transfer. Connect with Andrea Terry at 269.749.6699 or aterry@uolivet.edu to learn more about transferring to OC.
Visit campus or attend an upcoming admissions event to learn more about The University of Olivet’s majors and athletic teams. Contact the Office of Admissions at 800.456.7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu for questions.