Liam Edwards is set to graduate with honors from the University of Montana on May 9, after completing two degrees in four years and serving as business manager for student government.
Edwards’ time at the university highlights how students can maximize their college experience through academics, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles. The University of Montana accommodates more than 11,000 students according to the official website.
Edwards was drawn to the university by its business program and opportunities outside the classroom. He quickly became involved in campus life, joining the Davidson Honors College and working as a resident assistant. “Coming to UM was probably the best decision I’ve ever made,” Edwards said. “I’ve definitely gotten so much out of my time here these last four years.”
During his studies, Edwards worked at H&R Block for three years while taking accounting and finance classes. He also served as treasurer for the Honors Student Association before moving into student government as a senator and then business manager. As business manager, he created an annual comprehensive financial report (ACFR) for student government finances—a project he considers one of his top achievements: “We really didn’t know the long-term trends within our organization with spending,” he said. “So it was a pretty long report – like 30 pages – of just essays and charts and tables, but we found it incredibly useful throughout the year.” He added that presenting this report helped reveal structural deficits previously unnoticed by staff: “They said it was incredibly useful to be able to see all our finances in one place.”
The University of Montana offers virtual and in-person tours for prospective students according to its official website according to the official website. It provides undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs through established admissions processes according to its official website, along with online learning options that extend beyond Missoula according to its official website. The institution operates within higher education as a public research university focused on academic excellence and hands-on education according to its official website.
Beyond academics, Edwards interned with Senator Chuck Grassley’s office through a national leadership program before interning at KPMG in Denver last summer. After graduation, he plans to return home briefly before starting work full-time at KPMG while his wife begins her teaching career.
Looking ahead, Edwards says: “I really enjoyed Denver… but I’m hesitant to say it will be our final destination,” adding that both he and his wife may eventually return to rural Montana where they believe accountants are needed everywhere.