For Dennis Harlow, higher education was not only aimed at graduation – it was a question of transforming his career, broadening his professional network and immersing himself in a program that aligned with his life. Since its beginnings as a high school bank cashier in his vast experience as a commercial banker, Dennis has always had great interest in finance and to help his customers to succeed. But it was only when he started working alongside CPAs – to analyze the financial statements, to help business owners distribute assets and to navigate post -acquisition strategies – that he realized that he wanted to dive more deep into the field of accounting. This is where he discovered the Master of Accounting (IMSA) at the University of Illinois Gies College of Business.
The Journey to Gies: a perfect adjustment
Dennis initially took online courses during COVID-19 to resume the rhythm of the school, after being outside the academic world for more than 20 years. His first experience in online education was with his first cycle Alma Mater, but he found the missing experience – no interaction, no group work, no flexibility and only pre -recorded conferences.
Although he was already accepted in the master’s program of his former undergraduate school, he was determined to find something better. He explored several options, but the requirement of presence in person was a dealbreaker, given his full -time job and other personal commitments. In the spring of 2023, just a few weeks before he returned as a full -time online student at his Alma Mater, he decided to continue his research for other online corporate programs, noting Gies regularly ranked among the best. With a strong reputation –including being a Accounting program for the first three In the United States – networking opportunities and a robust online experience for master’s students, GIES stood out above all. Dennis quickly pivoted his plan, left his Alma Mater, and rather registered in IMSA online.
A dynamic and engaging learning experience
From the start, Dennis found that the GIES recruitment and admission team was incredibly useful. They explained the possibility of The stacking course progresses in the diplomaInteractive live sessions and major networking opportunities. Unlike his previous experience, Gies has provided a truly engaging environment. His classmates were diverse, coming from all over the world, and his teachers included impressive leaders such as tax lawyers or doctoral students involved in the drafting of tax laws.
“The teachers were hilarious and engaging,” recalls Dennis. “They even made the driest and exciting material.” He specifically congratulated professors Matthew Hutchens and Danielle Green and their ability to provide real world experience in class.
He also appreciated the structure of the program, which allowed him to balance work and school. He created his own schedule, working intensely on weekends and completing projects during the week. The flexibility of the program allowed him to maintain a high GPA directly until the diploma is obtained.
Networking and community: Gies difference
One of the main remarkable aspects of Dennis’s experience at Gies was the strong feeling of community and networking possibilities. He was blown away by iconvergeAn annual event that brings together online students in person. “The pure impression of all this – phenomenal speakers, the bonds of the ancients and the history of the school – were incredible,” he said.
Although he was online student, Dennis felt deeply connected to his peers and to the GIES network. He actively participated in Igba networking opportunitiesChicago meetings groups, and even attended Cubs games with comrades. Dennis noted: “The wonderful thing about the University of Illinois and the Gies program is that they are trying to keep you together and connect with school,” he said. “We help each other. It is a very consistent community. »»
The ability to connect with other professionals in the industry and the places has made the experience feel more than a simple online program. In fact, as Dennis noted, “it was like a family”.
Preparation for the future: CPA exam and beyond
The IMSA program of Gies has not only prepared Dennis for a career change, but also equipped it for the CPA examinationthat he should take in April. He appreciated that the program did not require a accounting context and that it was designed to ensure that students were well prepared for the CPA and the real world applications.
Beyond the CPA, Dennis is already looking to the future – he plans to return and finish the line online Imba Program at GIES, further expanding its business and finance expertise. He was enthusiastic about his ability to build 24 IMSA credits to the Imba And complete a second diploma even faster than the first. His passion for working with customers, analyzing financial strategies and helping companies succeed is only strengthening.
A proud graduate
A graduate in December 2024, Dennis celebrated this important stage by buying a commemorative brick at the commemorative stadium of Illinois, marking both his journey and the heritage of his family. His brother graduated in Illinois in 2004, and with Dennis graduated from the same school 20 years later, he was delighted to cement this sustainable family bond that he and his brother now share at the University of Illinois. By reflecting on his experience, he is grateful not only for education, but for relations, mentoring and professional growth he has acquired thanks to Gies.
With 15 years in his current business and a deep passion for tax and advisory services, Dennis is impatient to continue to help customers navigate in financial decisions. Her mantra remains the same: “How can we get there?” – A perfect reflection of his dedication to guide others towards financial success and his dedication to improve through higher education.
For anyone who plans a business or online accounting program, Dennis’s journey is proof that Gies College of Business not only provides high -level education, but a flexible, engaging and deeply connected experience to a prosperous professional network.
