Student Spotlight: Kidus Alemu '26

Kidus Alemu is a senior accounting major who expects to graduate this coming May. Born and raised in Ethiopia, he is a proud member of the accounting honors society Beta Alpha Psi (BAP) and was recently selected as the 2025 recipient of the AICPA’s Medal of Honor.

How did you choose Isenberg and UMass Amherst?

While studying accounting at Bunker Hill Community College, I was exploring options to transfer into a four-year college in my junior year. Pam Eddinger, the president of BHCC, mentioned UMass Amherst as a great option. I did my research on the school, and it stood out for having one of the strongest accounting programs in the area. That, paired with Isenberg’s overall reputation, made the decision easy.

How did you choose this combination of majors?

It was a coin toss between economics and accounting; my father had a hand in making me choose accounting. He said it had a better job market. 

What have been your favorite classes and experiences at Isenberg so far?

I enjoyed all the classes I have taken at Isenberg so far. But if I had to choose one it would be Cost Accounting; it made me put in more effort. Being invited to the 50th Annual Accounting Banquet was also a big highlight and an honor.

How do you feel that being a member of BAP has shaped your college experience and your professional development thus far?

I have participated in a lot of BAP events, and I love how they are fun but also educational and provide members with a lot of opportunities. Being a member of BAP has provided me a lot of extra information about my major and what I have to do to succeed in the marketplace that I might not have known otherwise. It’s also great to be surrounded by peers who share similar interests.

Are you a member of any other clubs and/or extracurriculars in addition to BAP?

Yes, I am also part of the Investment Club and the Entrepreneurship Club. I also work as the student ambassador for MassCPA.

Have you had any jobs or internships during college?

Yes, I’ve completed three internships: one at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, a municipal finance internship with the Massachusetts Department of Local Services, and a sustainability consulting internship at Sustainserv. I have also volunteered with the VITA program at Isenberg, helping to prepare tax returns for community members.

What are you planning after graduation?

I’m aiming to begin my career in accounting or finance, ideally in a role that allows me to employ my critical thinking skills to complete tasks. I’m especially interested in tax advisory, capital markets, or investment banking.

If you could go back and give your first-year self some advice, what would you tell them?

I would tell myself to learn strong time management from the outset. You can do all the things you want to do or experience in college if you manage your time properly.

Do you have a mentor from the Isenberg community who has helped shape your experience?

I don’t have a specific mentor, but many of the professors that I’ve taken classes with have been great resources. They always leave their doors open to me and are willing to listen and share their thoughts. Isenberg’s advisors have also been a great help and support to me.

How does it feel to win the 2025 Medal of Inspiration from the AICPA Foundation?

It feels incredible. It’s not something I ever expected or imagined, and I’m deeply honored and grateful to receive it.

Note: The AICPA, or American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, is the national professional organization for CPAs in the US. The organization sets professional standards, develops the CPA exam, and advocates for members of the profession.

How do you feel like your Isenberg experience has helped you succeed and set you up to receive such an honor?

I don’t even know where to start — from the moment I got accepted, every experience I had at Isenberg has helped me grow and made it possible for me to receive this honor. Even though I’ve only been here for a year, the impact has been amazing. The support, resources, and sense of community have helped me grow both personally and professionally. From the Dean to my advisor to my professors, everyone has been incredibly encouraging and generous with their time.