Accounting is a high-paying and in-demand job, and Molly Bennett has worked hard to be able to get in the field early on in her life.
“While accounting may not be every student’s favorite choice when figuring out their major, its consistent demand speaks to its vital role in every industry,” Bennett said. “Accountants will always be needed, as the job cannot be done by artificial intelligence. Accounting offers stable career prospects with opportunities for growth. Whether you decide to go into public accounting or industry accounting, both will lead you to success in your role.”
CELEBRATING SUCCESS: UToledo recognizes the Class of 2024 with a series of stories featuring students receiving their degrees at spring commencement.
Bennett completed her bachelor of arts degree in business administration in accounting in May 2023. Now, she is set to graduate on Friday, May 3 with her master of science degree in accountancy.
“My goal was to graduate with my BBA in four years and immediately go back for my MSA and graduate one year later,” she said. “UToledo has a great program in the College of Business and Innovation called the Pipeline Program.”
The John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation’s Pipeline Program allows undergraduate students to take 6000 level classes during their final year, which also allows them to pay for those classes at an undergraduate level.
With this program, as well as a summer class and taking as many credits as she could, Bennett was able to complete her MSA in only a year.
Dr. Karen Green, associate professor of accounting, has been instrumental to Bennett in working with her throughout earning her MSA.
“Molly stood out as someone who is not only intellectually curious but also innovative,” Green said. “By nature, Molly is a supportive person as she cheers on her classmates, tutors undergraduate students and provides guidance to those who are unsure of the accounting field. Molly is an exceptional student with a positive attitude who understands the importance of hard work and perseverance. I am very excited to see where the future takes her.”
Bennett also works as a student accounting tutor in the John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation’s Alan Barry Accounting Lab, where she tutors students in-person and online while giving them advice about her own career experiences.
MOlly Bennett completed her bachelor of arts in business administration in accounting in May 2023. She graduates Friday with her master of science in accountancy.
“I have had a really great time tutoring in the Alan Barry Accounting Lab,” Bennett said. “I serve as a support system for accounting students by offering study strategies and time management techniques to help students excel in their accounting course work while also helping with career advice.
“Additionally, I provide ongoing support and guidance to students, offering practical and real-world examples to reinforce theoretical knowledge and foster confidence in applying accounting principles.”
Bennett has interned at various companies including PricewaterhouseCoopers, Gilmore Jasion Mahler and Marathon Petroleum Corp. She currently interns with the Maumee-based company CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA).
In September, she will begin working full time in their business risk services group where she will be assisting clients with internal controls and risk management.
“I chose CLA because of the opportunity for growth in the firm, the positive and friendly environment and the flexibility they offer to their employees,” Bennett said. “These three factors were very important to me when I was looking for a full-time job and CLA offers all of them.”
Taking advantage of the Pipeline Program from UToledo and the high demand for accountants, Bennett is set to begin a successful career following graduation.
“One of the many things I love about UToledo is their ability to help you achieve your goals,” she said. “Overall, if a student enjoys working with numbers, problem-solving and ensuring financial integrity, accounting is a great career path.”
