Class of 2024 profile: Hannah Kreimeyer

Hannah Kreimeyer was still in high school when she first developed an interest in accounting. She was fascinated with the language of business and the important role accounting plays in an organization’s success. 

That’s when she set her sights on becoming a public accountant and attending the School of Accountancy at the Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business. 

On Sunday, Kreimeyer will be one step closer to achieving her goal when she graduates from the college with a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting through the 150-Hour Accountancy Program. She is currently pursuing her Certified Public Accounting license and will begin work this fall with KPMG in her hometown of Kansas City, Missouri.  

“I am eager to immerse myself in the dynamic world of public accounting, where I’ll have the chance to apply everything I’ve learned at Trulaske and continue growing both personally and professionally,” said Kreimeyer, who worked as a graduate teaching assistant and in the Trulaske Edge professional development program office.  

Above all else, Kreimeyer has learned that, for her, college has been far more than achieving academic success. It’s been about getting out of her comfort zone, embracing her true self and developing lasting connections with others. 

Why did you choose Mizzou?

I chose Mizzou primarily for its accountancy program, which has a strong reputation and aligns perfectly with my career aspirations. Additionally, campus life at Mizzou was a major draw for me. I was excited about the diverse range of student organizations, events and opportunities for personal growth that Mizzou offers outside of the classroom.

What motivated you to pursue your field of study at Trulaske?

I developed an interest in the field of accountancy during high school and knew that I wanted to pursue it further in college. Trulaske’s reputation for producing successful accounting professionals and the opportunities the college provides students for networking with individuals in the field made it a perfect choice for me.

What person at Trulaske played an instrumental role in your college experience and what lessons did you learn from that person?

One person who stands out as having a significant impact on my college journey was Jen Ward, program support specialist at the Trulaske Edge professional development program and my supervisor when I worked there. Jen has been a pivotal figure in my college journey. Her mentorship has been so much more than just a job – it’s been a masterclass in the soft skills crucial for success in the business world. From learning how to navigate professional interactions with finesse to understanding the power of networking, Jen has been a constant source of wisdom and support. What sets her apart is her approach to leadership – she doesn’t just delegate tasks, she empowers and trusts her team to succeed, fostering an environment of collaboration and growth. Despite my relatively short time working with her, Jen’s influence has left a lasting mark on me, both personally and professionally. She’s not just a supervisor, she’s a mentor, a role model and a driving force behind my growth at Trulaske.

What business class at Trulaske made the biggest impression on you and why? 

The Accounting and Strategic Business Analysis capstone course taught by Dr. Chris Prestigiacomo, or “Dr.P.” This course stood out because it didn’t just focus on accounting, it challenged us to think critically about business decisions and their broader impact. Dr. P’s emphasis on real world applications and open discussions encouraged us to learn from each other’s perspectives and think beyond the numbers. What made this class truly meaningful was Dr.P’s genuine care for his students’ success. He not only taught us about business but also instilled in us the importance of personal values, empathy and gratitude.

Was there an obstacle that you had to overcome while a student at Trulaske and if so, how did you overcome it?

Balancing coursework with two jobs – working in the Edge office as a student worker and serving as a GA for the ACCTCY 2258 course – while also studying for the Certified Public Accounting exams – presented a significant challenge for me this semester. Along the way, I’ve learned valuable lessons on how to better manage my time, set priorities and seek support when needed. By applying these insights and remaining proactive in my approach, I’ve successfully navigated the demands of my workload.

What kind of leadership skills have you gained at the Trulaske College of Business?

At Trulaske, I didn’t just learn about leadership in theory – I lived it! Whether it was through group projects, team-based assignments, or my involvement in clubs and organizations, I gained practical leadership skills that have shaped who I am today. These experiences taught me effective communication, collaboration and problem-solving – essential skills that have prepared me for future leadership roles.

What hands-on learning opportunities at Trulaske have helped you the most and how will you apply them to your business career?

The hands-on experience gained through internships has been invaluable in shaping my skills and confidence as I prepare for my business career. Taking an internship class through Trulaske provided me with the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting, and it ultimately led to securing a full-time job. The practical insights and industry exposure gained during my internship provided me with a deeper understanding of the profession I was pursuing, allowing me to approach my coursework with a more practical perspective. The real-world experience gained from these opportunities has prepared me to hit the ground running in my career, allowing me to make meaningful contributions from day one.

What are your favorite Mizzou memories?

My favorite memories stem from the friendships I built along the way. Whether it was from my time in Greek life, attending formals and social events, or from the excitement of cheering on Mizzou, every memory is tied to the people who made those moments special. Being involved in different organizations also brought me closer to like-minded individuals, creating a sense of community that made Mizzou feel life home. From tailgating before football games to late-night study sessions with friends, it’s the connections I made that truly define my college experience and fill me with gratitude.

Looking back on your college career, what are the biggest lessons you’ve learned?

College taught me that success isn’t solely measured by academic achievements – it’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, embracing your true self and building meaningful connections. I learned that growth often requires pushing past the boundaries of familiarity and embracing new opportunities with courage. One of the most important lessons I learned was the importance of networking. Whether it was striking up conversations with professors, participating in career fairs or joining student organizations, I discovered the power of building a strong network of peers and mentors who have been invaluable sources of support and inspiration. Lastly, I’ve learned the importance of remaining open to continuous learning. Every experience, whether positive or challenging, presents an opportunity for growth and development.

What advice would you give to incoming students?

To incoming students pursuing accounting, I would say: Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, whether it’s through internships, networking events or extracurricular activities. Be true to yourself and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and be brave. Remember, college is not just about academics – it's also about discovering who you are and what you’re passionate about. And don’t forget to enjoy the journey – college goes by faster than you think!