Jenna Gezon

As an accounting major, Jenna Gezon '16 felt well-prepared for the Certified Public Accounting exams—as well as for the ethics, leadership, and faith that guide her day-to-day life.

Current role: Staff Accountant at The Windquest Group, Grand Rapids

How were faith, leadership and ethics practices woven into your courses? How did those elements prepare you for life, regardless of where you work?
Ethics, leadership and faith were woven into almost every business course I took at Calvin. Calvin taught me that in my life, I am going to encounter unethical situations; it's important to be able to form appropriate practices and follow through with them in my day-to-day life. One of my favorite classes at Calvin was Business Ethics because it was so applicable to the real world.

How did your professors contribute expertise, faith, mentorship or devotion to your Calvin experience? Who is one professor who had a strong influence on your development?
I was always very impressed by the level of expertise of my Calvin professors. Due to their extensive knowledge and teachings, I felt as though I was very adequately prepared for my Certified Public Accounting exams. I was able to pass each of them on the first try, and I have my Calvin professors to thank for that. I was always impressed by how much Professor Stansbury knew and could teach us. She is a professor who cares greatly about her students and their success.

What’s one thing you would want to tell someone starting their journey at Calvin?
Take advantage of their professors! I found that my professors were a great resource in finding a job. Professor Cook encouraged me to apply for the internship which led to my current job. One thing very unique about Calvin is its small average class size. The small class sizes give you and your professors an opportunity to get to know each other. The mentorships which result can be very valuable in your time at Calvin and beyond. Don't underestimate the power of your Calvin connections.

What about Calvin specifically prepared you for this next step in your journey?
I think that the level of difficulty of Calvin’s courses prepared me for the next step in my journey. Each class that I took pushed me to work harder, and this has paid off in my current position. I apply this diligence to my everyday work routine. It has also taught me to ask the right questions and to look for opportunities for improvement.