Connor Robson ’20

Connor Robson ’20 always had an interest in how businesses operate. He knew accounting would give him the inside look he needed to help businesses operate more efficiently. As a double-major in accounting and economics: finance, Robson obtained three accounting Exploreships during his Simpson career. By experiencing a variety of areas of accounting, he determined the best place to start his career was public accounting. Now Robson serves as an auditor for Big Four accounting firm, KPMG.

About Connor

Hometown: Ankeny, Iowa
Majors: Accounting with CPA Concentration and Economics: Finance
Occupation: Audit Associate at KPMG
Involvement at Simpson: Men’s soccer, SAE Fraternity, Accounting Club
Exploreships at Simpson: BKD, Businessolver, Kevin Wadle CPA

Q&A

What does the job of an auditor entail?
The primary goal of an auditor is to verify that the financial records of a company are complete and accurate, as well as in compliance with the applicable accounting standards. The purpose of an auditor is to provide an opinion on whether the financial records are fairly stated so that users of the financial statements (primarily investors) can rely on the information to make decisions.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the accounting field?
I chose auditing because I always knew that I wanted to work in business and with finances. I am really intrigued with how businesses operate and auditing allows me to get an inside look at many different businesses. I hope to use the knowledge I gain to help businesses operate more efficiently while in public accounting or possibly transfer that knowledge to my own business some day.

What impact did your internships have on securing a job after graduation?
Although I did not have an internship at KPMG, my other internships had a huge role in leading to my full-time job. Through my other internships, I was able to experience many different areas of the accounting profession that led me to want to start my career in public accounting. I also believe that the experience I gained through my internships helped me stand out when applying to KPMG.

Did you seek support from the Office of Career Development during your time at Simpson?
Yes, I did utilize the Office of Career Development. I met with them multiple times throughout my time at Simpson. While seeking internship opportunities, they helped find suitable options, advised me how to contact employers, and even reached out to their professional connections on my behalf. They were also a great resource to initially help me draft and finalize my resume before getting my first internship.

Why did you choose Simpson?
I chose Simpson because of the many connections Simpson and its professors had to professionals in the workplace, specifically in Des Moines. This could not be more true and it led to my many internship opportunities as well as a full-time job after college. On top of Simpson preparing students for success after college, Simpson also offered a chance to continue playing soccer for a very successful program.

At Simpson, we offer a host of possibilities, from obtaining a degree in accounting to meeting the huge demand for leaders in the health services market. Whatever your major, the chances are great you’ll discover success in a rewarding career or acceptance into a graduate school.

EXPLORE the department of business administration & economics AT SIMPSON COLLEGE