I am Kennedy Garrett, an honors student at the Kelley School of Business in Indianapolis. My academic journey has been challenging and rewarding, as I strive to excel in accounting. Currently, I work as an accounting tutor for Indiana University Indianapolis, where I assist fellow students and reinforce my understanding of accounting concepts by reviewing past materials and staying engaged with current trends in the field.
This past summer, I had the invaluable opportunity to intern at Exelon, a leading utility company in Chicago, where I took on an audit role focused on Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) testing. This experience honed my analytical skills and deepened my understanding of compliance and regulatory standards within the corporate sector.
In Spring 2023, I continued to build my expertise at a CPA firm in Indianapolis, where I worked on tax extensions, prepared journal entries, and assisted with 1040 tax forms. This role allowed me to gain hands-on experience in tax preparation and broadened my knowledge of financial reporting.
My professional background includes experience at a law firm and a financial advising office, where I was exposed to various facets of business operations. These roles taught me the importance of effective communication, as I learned to attend professional meetings, interact with clients over the phone, and edit important documents. Additionally, I became a notary public during this time, further enhancing my credibility and skill set.
Through these diverse experiences, I’ve developed strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage clients from different industries, which I believe will serve me well in my future career.
Outside of academics and work, I have a passion for swimming. I previously worked as a lifeguard and taught swim lessons, which I found incredibly fulfilling. I also enjoy spending time outdoors, especially hiking in the Smoky Mountains, where I find peace and inspiration. Reading is another hobby, particularly nonfiction, as I love exploring new ideas and learning about different perspectives. One other thing I enjoy is photography.
I am excited about what lies ahead in my career and look forward to leveraging my skills and experiences to make a meaningful impact in accounting.