Student Discovers Passion, Leads New Organization at UM-DeSoto
Accountancy major takes full advantage of campus opportunities
SOUTHAVEN, Miss. – Hunter Moore was a sophomore in college when he made a decision that would change his life forever. Unsure of his future endeavors, the Olive Branch native embarked on a journey that would ultimately lead him to a path of success.
“I lived in Desoto County until I was thirteen,” Moore said. “I moved to Ripley and graduated from Ripley High School. When I graduated, I was unsure of what I wanted to do with my future, but I did know that I wanted to obtain a college degree.”
Moore moved back to Olive Branch and began attending Northwest Community College as a chemical engineering student.
“I continued on this route for a year and realized that I felt no passion for the career that I was pursuing,” Moore said. “Shortly after realizing this, at the beginning of my sophomore year, I dropped out of college and my dreams of being a college grad began to dissipate.”
Moore didn’t know it yet, but this was only the beginning of what would come. After a year of work and what he saw as no progression, he returned to NWCC, reigniting his dreams of earning a degree.
“With a new major and attitude, I began my sophomore year with optimism,” he said. “Throughout the year, I continued to work part time and attend school full time, and in May of 2016 I received my associate degree.”
Upon graduating, Moore considered multiple universities such as the University of Memphis, Mississippi State and the University of Mississippi’s main campus in Oxford. His ultimate choice was closer to home.
“After talking to a recruiter for UM-Desoto, there was nothing more to consider,” Moore said. “He informed me of the 2+2 program which allows me to finish my undergrad degree at the same location of my other classes.”
Moore was also told of the many scholarships that were available to him and on that day, he became a Rebel.
“With the help of financial aid, I have been able to continue my education without having to incur a substantial amount of debt, relocate or pursue new employment,” he said. “Aside from the cost benefits associated with the DeSoto campus, it has provided me with countless opportunities to grow professionally and academically.”
Now enrolled in one of the top ten accountancy programs in the nation, Moore has enjoyed his experience at UM-DeSoto.
“The number of students in each class is significantly smaller than most traditional college campuses, which allows for more individualized instruction from the teachers,” he said. “Due to this fact, I feel that I am getting a quality education for a fraction of the price.”
Moore has also been exposed to a number of community service and networking opportunities, allowing him to become more involved with Desoto County.
“Once a month the student body is invited to assist with the Mid-South Food Bank and provide aid to the less fortunate within the community,” he said. “Also, with the help of staff in the student services office, we have been able to establish the first ISACA student group in the mid-south area.”
ISACA, previously known as the Information Systems Audit and Control Association, promotes information systems, auditing and compliance to help streamline work performance and eliminate the possibility of cyber-security risks. Moore currently serves as president of the student chapter (ISG).
“With the foundation of the ISG we have been able to bring in professionals from various businesses in surrounding areas, including FedEx,” he said. “The group has given us the opportunity to enhance our professional skills through resume preparation, mock-interviews and various seminars to keep us up-to-date with the current business environment.”
After completing his first semester at the DeSoto campus, Moore knew for certain that accounting is his calling.
“With the confidence that I have found at the University of Mississippi-DeSoto, I now have new goals I wish to accomplish,” Moore said. “Upon graduation, I will begin pursuing my Master of Taxation and prepare for the CPA exam. None of this would be possible without the regional campus.”