Luke Thelen’s career looks 'pitcher' perfect

KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Luke Thelen is taking the accounting field by storm! Originally from Caledonia, Michigan, the graduate student in accountancy at Western Michigan University is following his passions for numbers and baseball. With the support of the Haworth College of Business, Thelen is sure to be a team player, on and off the field.

Finishing his B.B.A in three and a half years and graduating with a 4.0 grade point average, Thelen decided to continue his education at Western with hopes for a dynamic career.

“The thing that excites me the most about the field of accountancy is being able to assist companies in maximizing their business objectives, as well as providing trustworthy information to the public. My mom is an accountant and was a big inspiration for me when choosing a career field as I saw the impactful work she was doing. It’s also a goal for me to start my own business, so I know these degrees will help support me throughout that process.”

Thelen’s time at WMU Haworth has been filled with guidance and encouragement. He has taken advantage of the many resources available, both during his undergraduate education and as he pursues his master’s degree. 

“WMU Haworth has been amazingly supportive throughout my time as a student. Every professor has gone above and beyond to assist me in understanding class materials. The required undergraduate courses have truly given me a solid foundation as I continue through my graduate education and will serve me beyond that. The accounting department has been especially helpful in navigating my Certified Public Accountant exam preparation.”

As he nears the end of his fourth year at WMU, Thelen has used many of the additional opportunities that the college of business provides. He says, “WMU Haworth has played a massive role in teaching the skills I need to accomplish my goals. Things like the Resume Revamp program, the Student Professional Readiness Series, mock interviews and career fairs set students up for success.” 

Outside of his academic endeavors, Thelen is a pitcher on the WMU baseball team as well as a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. Here, select members from every WMU athletic team come together to act as the main line of communication between their individual teams and the WMU Athletic Board. Due to these commitments, Thelen’s schedule is packed, with little room for much else. However, he has been dedicated to his future career by having a few different jobs related to his field. He has held positions at Perrigo, Padagis and most recently at Sandy Pines Recreational Community as a finance intern. Balancing his academic and athletic life proves a challenge, but one he enjoys.

With Thelen’s WMU experience in its final inning, he offers some advice to his fellow business students.

“Coming into college, I was a very introverted person, and the thought of having to go to a career fair intimidated me. While it made me uncomfortable, I kept attending these events and eventually got better at interacting with professionals. Now, I view talking to people and being personable as one of my greatest strengths. The only way you can grow is by trying something new.”

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