Posted: Aug 07, 2018

Summer Internship Spotlight: Jenna Taylor

Summer break is about more than having fun in the sun. For a number of Simpson student-athletes, the summer months provide an opportunity to prepare for their career. This year, SimpsonAthletics.com is taking a closer look at how eight student-athletes are making the most of their summer.

Jenna Taylor

Sport: Basketball
Hometown: Creston, Iowa
Class this Fall: Junior
Majors: Accounting, Economics: Finance
Internship: Accounting Intern at McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith, P.C. in West Des Moines

What are your primary responsibilities?

It is slower in the office not being tax season, but I help with whatever side projects the senior managers or HR has, whether it be checking the database to make sure clients' contact information is accurate or getting in touch with clients to make sure they recieved their appropriate tax return. I have also gone to a few clients on audits to see what the audit process is like.

How does this position help with your career goals?

I have been able to get a feel for public accounting through my internship at MHC&S. In the program, we work with both tax and audit teams which has helped me get a better grasp on both areas and solidify which sector I would like to pursue in my career. I have gained some valuable knowledge and experience that I feel like will translate to the classroom the next couple years as well as ease the transition during my first few years in the workplace.

Did Simpson play a role in helping you get these internships? If so, how?

Yes! Simpson played a role in me getting this position. I got to know Morgan McLaughlin, a 2018 Simpson graduate, through Noreen Morrow, one of my teammates. Morgan secured a job with MHC&S last spring, and she informed me about potential openings for the summer internship program and encouraged me to apply.

How has your experience as a student-athlete been helpful in this position?

Being a student athlete has helped me in this position by teaching me discipline and the importance of a strong work ethic. I have found that both attributes are vital in the professional workplace, and I think those qualities were instilled in me through balancing athletics and academics.