Dennis Harlow’s Gies iMSA Experience: A Comfortable Network Journey

Dennis Harlow’s educational journey is a compelling testament to how higher education can be a transformative experience, not just an academic pursuit. His story is one of career advancement, network expansion, and the pursuit of a program that perfectly aligns with personal and professional goals. From his early years working as a bank teller to a successful career in commercial banking, Dennis always had a penchant for finance and assisting clients in achieving their goals. However, it was his collaboration with Certified Public Accountants (CPAs)—analyzing financial statements, advising business owners on asset allocation, and strategizing post-acquisition plans—that kindled his interest in delving deeper into the field of accounting. This newfound passion led him to discover the Master’s of Accounting (iMSA) program at the University of Illinois Gies College of Business.

### The Path to Gies: An Ideal Match

Dennis’s journey back into academia began during the COVID-19 pandemic when he decided to refresh his academic skills after a two-decade hiatus. Initially, he enrolled in online classes at his undergraduate alma mater. However, this experience left much to be desired. The lack of interaction, group work, flexibility, and reliance solely on pre-recorded lectures did not meet his expectations for a fulfilling educational experience.

Dennis’s quest for a better educational fit led him to explore various programs, but many required physical attendance—an impractical option given his full-time work commitments and personal responsibilities. In the spring of 2023, just weeks before resuming his studies as a full-time online student at his former institution, he decided to continue his search for a more suitable online business program. His research led him to Gies College of Business, consistently ranked among the top institutions for accounting programs in the U.S. The program’s strong reputation, robust online experience, and abundant networking opportunities made it stand out. Consequently, Dennis made a pivotal decision to pivot from his alma mater’s program and instead enroll in the online iMSA at Gies.

### An Engaging and Dynamic Learning Experience

From the beginning, Dennis was impressed by the recruitment and admissions team at Gies, who offered valuable guidance on stacking course progress towards the degree, interactive live sessions, and the numerous networking opportunities available. Unlike his previous experience, Gies provided an engaging and interactive learning environment. His classmates spanned the globe, and his professors brought real-world expertise, including experiences as tax attorneys and contributors to tax legislation.

Dennis fondly recalls the dynamic and entertaining nature of his professors, particularly highlighting the contributions of professors Matthew Hutchens and Danielle Green. Their ability to infuse real-world experiences into the curriculum made even the driest topics engaging and exciting.

The program’s flexible structure was another highlight for Dennis, allowing him to balance work and academic commitments effectively. He crafted a personalized schedule, dedicating weekends to intensive study and completing projects during the week. This flexibility enabled him to maintain a high academic standing throughout his studies.

### Building a Community: The Gies Advantage

A defining aspect of Dennis’s experience at Gies was the strong sense of community and networking. He was particularly impressed by iConverge, an annual event that unites online students in person. The event’s caliber, featuring exceptional speakers, alumni connections, and the rich history of the school, left a lasting impression.

Despite being an online student, Dennis felt deeply connected to his peers and the Gies network. He actively participated in iGBA networking opportunities, Chicago meetup groups, and even enjoyed social outings like Cubs games with fellow students. The University of Illinois and the Gies program fostered a cohesive community where students supported each other, making the experience feel like more than just an online program—it felt like family.

### Preparing for the Future: CPA Exam and Beyond

The iMSA program at Gies not only prepared Dennis for a career transition but also equipped him for the CPA exam, which he is scheduled to take in April. The program’s design did not require a prior accounting background, ensuring that all students were well-prepared for the CPA exam and real-world applications.

Looking beyond the CPA, Dennis has ambitious plans to further his education by enrolling in the online iMBA program at Gies. He is particularly excited about the opportunity to stack 24 credits from the iMSA towards the iMBA, allowing him to complete a second credential more swiftly. His passion for working with clients, analyzing financial strategies, and helping businesses succeed continues to grow.

### A Proud Graduate and Lifelong Learner

Dennis celebrated his graduation in December 2024 by purchasing a commemorative brick at Illinois Memorial Stadium, symbolizing both his educational journey and his family’s legacy. With his brother having graduated from Illinois in 2004, Dennis was thrilled to share this familial bond with his alma mater. Reflecting on his experience, he is grateful not only for the education but also for the relationships, mentorship, and professional growth he gained through Gies.

With 15 years of experience at his current firm and a deep passion for tax and advisory services, Dennis is eager to continue helping clients navigate financial decisions. His guiding mantra, “How can we get you there?” reflects his commitment to guiding others toward financial success and his dedication to self-improvement through higher education.

For those considering an online business or accounting program, Dennis’s journey serves as proof that Gies College of Business offers more than a top-tier education. It provides a flexible, engaging, and deeply connected experience to a thriving professional network, making it an ideal choice for aspiring professionals seeking to advance their careers and expand their horizons.
For more Information, Refer to this article.