EUGENE, Ore. – Bushnell University is excited to announce that all graduating accounting students in the class of 2024 secured full–time employment in accounting prior to graduation. This achievement highlights not only the university’s commitment to academic excellence but also the high demand for the skills and expertise cultivated in the accounting program.
“We are immensely proud of all our graduating accounting students and their remarkable achievement of 100% full-time employment offers,” shared Shelly Hartzell, associate professor of accounting at Bushnell and a certified public accountant (CPA) and certified management accountant (CMA), who holds a Master of Science in Management and Organizational Leadership (M.S.M.). “Their dedication, hard work, and perseverance have truly paid off, and I couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishments.“
Among the success stories are two exceptional graduates, Alex Petshow and Lindsey Estes, whose post-graduation plans exemplify the caliber of talent emerging from Bushnell University’s accounting program.
Alex Petshow (pictured above), an outstanding student with a stellar academic record, accepted a position with Geffen Mesher & Co. in Portland, Ore., a leading accounting and consulting firm. His dedication to mastering accounting principles and commitment to excellence have positioned him as an asset to Geffen Mesher & Co., where he will undoubtedly contribute to the firm’s continued success.
When asked about how Bushnell and the accounting program prepared him, Petshow explained that “the program at Bushnell has prepared me for employment by providing real-world examples and problems that can be solved in an understandable manner. Two internships and a continued focus on applying accounting concepts helped set me apart in the job market.”
Lindsey Estes (pictured above), another remarkable graduate, has secured a coveted position at MAZARS International in New York. Estes’s strong analytical skills, coupled with her in-depth knowledge of accounting practices, make her a valuable addition to MAZARS International, a global leader in audit, tax, and advisory services.
Reflecting on her journey, Lindsey Estes shared insights into her experience: “I am incredibly grateful for the education and support I received at Bushnell University. Professor Shelly Hartzell has been an incredible help since I entered the accounting department later in my academic career. Through her classes, Shelly goes above and beyond, meticulously preparing Excel files to simulate workplace scenarios and teaching us how to solve real-world problems. What sets her apart is her dedication to providing practical insights; she doesn’t just teach us to solve homework problems, but she also explains the ‘why’ behind the concepts using real-world examples. This approach has deepened my understanding and prepared me well for the challenges and opportunities ahead in my career at MAZARS International.”
“During the hiring process, I believe my extensive experience in the field has been a key differentiator. I’ve been fortunate to have diverse internships covering various aspects of accounting, from bookkeeping to taxes. In interviews, I emphasized my eagerness to grow within each organization, showcasing my strong work ethic and commitment to continuous improvement. Balancing my responsibilities as a college athlete while joining the accounting program late has taught me invaluable time management and stress management skills, which have proved invaluable in navigating the demands of both academics and athletics.”
Reflecting on the career prospects of these two outstanding graduates, Hartzell comments that “the success of Alex Petshow and Lindsey Estes not only reflects their dedication and hard work but also underscores the quality of education provided by our Accounting program. It is a testament to the preparation and real-world relevance embedded in our curriculum. I’m confident that they will continue to uphold the values of Bushnell and will continue to make a meaningful contribution in the professional world.“
The university’s accounting program, known for its rigorous curriculum and hands-on learning experiences, continues to produce graduates who are well-equipped to excel in the competitive field of accounting. The success of these students also highlights Bushnell University’s commitment to fostering career-ready professionals and contributing to the workforce needs of the accounting industry.
For more information about Bushnell University’s accounting program and its outstanding graduates, please contact Shelly Hartzell at shartzell@bushnell.edu.