Greg Sommers
SMU, Dallas
Dallas, TX USA
"You need to recognize the accomplishments you have had rather than focusing on the challenges that lie ahead."
Career Roadmap
Greg's work combines: Education, Business, and Teaching / Mentoring
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Immanuel High School
Bachelor's Degree
Accounting
Fresno Pacific University
Doctorate
Accounting
Ohio State University
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a Professor, Director Masters in Accounting Program:
Bachelor's Degree: Accounting
Doctorate: Accounting
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
Didn't get into the college I planned and so changed my major to Business.
2.
Found Accounting was pretty straight forward for me so I majored in it.
3.
Started work for a sole proprietor doing school district audits.
4.
Moved to a medium-sized local firm where I was in line to be a partner.
5.
Big curve ball! Realized I did not want to be a partner and started looking for the right path.
6.
Discovered I wanted to get into education and began graduate studies.
7.
Became a professor, teaching and doing research.
8.
Moved into the role of program director. What a great choice!
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Teachers:
The biggest discouragement was from those who told me the road would be hard and I needed commitment. While good to be aware of this, at times they said it to challenge my desire and prepared me for the road ahead.
How I responded:
Focusing on the goal. That along with relying on my support system gave me the assurance that I could get there. You need to recognize the accomplishments you have had rather than focusing on the challenges that lie ahead.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
One hurdle often faced is trying to find a balance between work and home. Early on in my graduate studies I consciously decided that I would not give up my family in pursuit of my career goals. Recognizing that both aspects are important is critical!