Alexis Shike
(’25 accounting)
Hometown: Greenfield, Iowa
I knew in early high school that I wanted to attend Iowa State University. The beautiful campus, the incredible resources available to students, and the strong sense of pride among alumni were just a few of the reasons I was drawn here. Still, coming from a small town where everyone knew each other, the transition felt overwhelming and, at times, scary. I was afraid I wouldn’t find my community and worried I’d be just another number to my professors, but I was pleasantly surprised.
After taking my first accounting class with Jenny Sturgill, associate teaching professor of accounting, and forming strong relationships with the people around me, Iowa State began to feel like home. As I continued through my coursework, I noticed how genuinely my professors cared — not just about teaching but about getting to know me and helping me succeed. Each accounting class challenged me in new ways and deepened my interest in the field. By my sophomore year, I knew I wanted to pursue my master of accounting (MAcc) degree — not only to continue developing my professional skill set, but also to help me obtain my CPA license for my future career.
My experience at Iowa State has been nothing short of amazing. I’ve formed lifelong connections with many of the faculty and my peers, continually pushed myself outside my comfort zone, and grown both academically and personally.
One of the most memorable experiences was participating in the four-week Accounting in Paris study abroad program with Chris Moon, associate teaching professor of accounting, and Brad Trinkle, associate professor of accounting. This program gave us the opportunity to explore the accounting profession in France and compare it to practice in the United States, all while I was enrolled in ACCT 5930: Corporate Taxation. The trip exceeded my professional and cultural expectations, and the effort and care that Chris and Brad poured into the experience is just one of many examples of how Iowa State faculty truly want the best for their students.
So far in the MAcc program, I have completed only two classes, but each has already pushed me to further develop my communication and critical accounting skills. I am excited to continue this journey and apply the knowledge and skills I’ve gained from Iowa State to my future career with Principal Financial Group. I look forward to the new opportunities and challenges ahead and am confident that Iowa State has prepared me for what is next!
Connect with Alexis Shike on LinkedIn.
