Annika Kempnich Honored at the International Graduation Celebration
A few days before the Boise State University 2023 Winter Commencement, while her family was in town, Annika Kempnich received a text from accounting instructor, JoAnn Wood, who wrote “I need you to meet me in the Student Union Building on Friday at 2 p.m. and bring your loved ones.” So Annika with her parents, brother, and sister-in-law showed up at the International Graduation Celebration not knowing why she needed to be in attendance. As Annika’s name was announced as the winner of the Boise State Outstanding International Graduate award, her parents, who understand English but do not speak it, watched with tears in their eyes as their daughter was recognized for her hard work. It was a lovely surprise for Annika and the family. Annika was selected for her excellence and success in academics and her leadership and involvement in campus activities and organizations.
Accounting Piqued Her Interest
Annika, a native of Germany, came to America as an exchange student and attended Marsing High School in Marsing, Idaho. After her exchange year she returned to Germany to finish high school. After high school graduation she obtained a student visa, applied to College of Western Idaho and was accepted. She then transferred to Boise State in the fall of 2022.
Annika chose to study accounting because she felt motivation and interest when learning accounting. Boise State has helped her tremendously. She has strengthened her knowledge of accounting with the help of the amazing accounting faculty. One of her favorite memories of her time at Boise State was her participation in the Armanino Accounting Case Competition in Seattle. Her team took 2nd place.
What accounting instructors say about Annika:
“Annika not only rose to the challenge of difficult curriculum, she made the class rise with her as her exam grades were unprecedently high.” –JoAnn Wood
“Annika stands out as a student that would be in the top 10% of students I’ve taught of all time. She was a pleasure to have in class, always had a great attitude and asked great questions.” –Josh Filzen
“Annika established a reputation for hard work, detailed accuracy, an eagerness to learn and a willingness to help her classmates.” –Matt Stallings
The World of Accounting
Annika was also selected by the College of Business and Economics as the Outstanding Graduate in accounting. Annika began the Master of Accountancy program this spring 2024 semester and is a graduate assistant working for the Department of Accountancy.
Annika has a summer tax internship lined up with Little Morris in Boise, then she will decide if she wants to continue her career in tax or explore other opportunities in the accounting world.