Shining Student Ethan Hunt

Ethan Hunt, a driven Bachelor of Management student majoring in accounting at the Dhillon School of Business, has been shaped by hands-on co-op experiences and a passion for connecting with his community. From volunteering at New Student Orientation to diving into Lethbridge’s arts scene as a board member of Mosaic Music YQL, Ethan has embraced opportunities that blend academic growth with personal fulfillment.

After applying accounting in the field and amassing a stockpile of prime examples, returning to class and learning new concepts has become significantly less complicated, improving my performance in my classes significantly.

Meet Ethan | Zealous. Unrelenting. Outgoing.
Program: Bachelor of Management | Major: Accounting

Why did you choose ULethbridge?

I chose the University of Lethbridge because it was close to home. Born and raised in Lethbridge, I have developed a deep appreciation for the city and its residents. When I graduated high school, I knew I had to stay local and go to the ULethbridge.

Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge?

I was definitely conflicted about what I wanted to study when I was in my first year. To try and sort out what I would like to major in, I remember making a two-page list of every single career path and major that I found interesting. Eventually, with help from the University of Lethbridge’s Liberal Arts Requirements, I narrowed my search to accounting and found I really enjoyed learning about money and finance. The rest is history.

Please tell us about your experiential or work-integrated learning at ULethbridge.

During my third year, I had the privilege of working for a local accounting firm as a co-op student. The job involved filing personal and corporate tax returns during tax season and completing account testing for various financial audits conducted across Southern Alberta.

Overall, this experience has been transformational to both my career and university journey. After applying accounting in the field and amassing a stockpile of prime examples, returning to class and learning new concepts has become significantly less complicated, improving my performance in my classes significantly.

Additionally, I had the pleasure of networking with various professionals in different accounting disciplines, which opened my eyes to the possibilities that accounting offers. Lastly, on a holistic level, I really enjoyed completing the work required for the job, solidifying my passion for the field and my plans for future growth in accounting.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?

I have always enjoyed volunteering during the fall New Student Orientation. It is an excellent opportunity to meet and talk with new students on campus, ensure that their first impression of the University is positive, and ensure that they have the resources to set themselves up for a successful university career.

How have your professors impacted your education?

One thing I enjoy about the University of Lethbridge is that it attracts a variety of professors with different backgrounds in each major. In the accounting department, for example, there are professors like Dr. Lori Kopp, who have several graduate degrees in accounting and can masterfully explain complex theoretical concepts. On the other hand, the department is home to professors like Adam Zanoni, who is an active business owner and can incorporate his own experience to create meaningful and comprehensive learning opportunities. This variety of perspectives has allowed me to develop a deep appreciation for the field of accounting and the many opportunities it offers, deepening my passion for the industry.

Is there anyone else who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?

My hat also goes off to the Career Bridge team at the University of Lethbridge, as they were the primary factor in helping me land my accounting co-op position and setting the foundation for my future career. The advice and assistance that I received from everyone in the Career Bridge office has propelled my career forward significantly, giving me the skills and knowledge to become a successful professional accountant. Additionally, volunteering to promote the co-op program and working with Career Bridge has allowed me to get to know everyone who works there on a personal level, and I am confident in saying that the university has staffed this office with some fantastic people.

Ethan's dedication to his work, technical expertise, and unwavering professionalism make him one of the most competent and outstanding students I’ve ever had the pleasure of supervising. – Brittany Lewis, WIL Programs Instructor

Have you received any scholarships and awards?

I have been a repeat recipient of scholarships such as the Louise McKinney Scholarship, the Frank M. and Lila Linn Thompson Scholarship, and the David and Janet Bently Excellence Award. I can only attribute colossal appreciation to these organizations and donors, as the funding has allowed me to worry less about how I will finance my university education and concentrate on my learning and future success.

Are you participating in any extracurricular activities?

I am avid and passionate about Lethbridge’s vivid arts scene, having grown up with family members directly involved in the industry. As such, I exercise this passion by sitting on the board of Mosaic Music YQL as the acting Treasurer. Not only do I use this experience as a master class in non-profit accounting, but I find it rewarding to promote and organize music shows around the city and bring people together using music as a universal bridge.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy reading non-fiction, particularly in the areas of finance, economics, and philosophy. I am also passionate about playing sports like basketball, softball, and running to keep active and reduce stress. Additionally, I enjoy diving into Lethbridge’s vibrant art scene, attending theatre performances, music shows, and art galleries around the city.

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

Immediately after graduation, I plan on pursuing my Chartered Professional Accountant designation and diving deep into the field of accounting. During my university career and co-op position, I have learned much about the designation and the skilled and knowledgeable graduates it produces. I would like to be a part of that legacy.

Long-term, I plan on exploring entrepreneurship. I am still determining the capacity and direction, but I know I want to use my accounting skills to create a positive impact within my community, and entrepreneurship seems like the optimal way forward.

What advice would you like to give those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?

I recommend that new students be open to participating in new experiences around the city and University. The University of Lethbridge campus has various extracurricular activities, including clubs, social events, and volunteering positions. No matter your major, there is something for everyone.

Not only will participating in these extracurricular events benefit new students professionally, giving them an experience that they can add to their resumes, but these events also give students an excellent opportunity to meet other classmates and faculty around campus and provide them with a fulfilling and well-rounded university experience.

Quick Answers

Favourite class: Auditing
Favourite social activity at ULethbridge: I love attending the various booth fairs held around campus; they provide a fantastic opportunity to interact with fellow students, engage with different organizations, and make meaningful connections with people.
Favourite place to study: One of study rooms on the North side of the library, where you can get amazing views of UHall and the Science Commons.

About Shining Students

Shining Students engage inside and outside of the classroom. What makes a student shine may differ from person to person, but they all share a passion for learning. They may be top students, involved in an innovative project, participating in ground-breaking research, playing Pronghorn athletics, fighting for social issues or all of the above! When students find something they enjoy and combine it with what they are good at, they shine.