From Pre-Med to Accounting: Finding Purpose and Direction in CBA

Adam Baessler did not begin his college career expecting to work in accounting. Originally a psychology major on a pre-med track with plans to pursue psychiatry, Baessler’s academic journey took several turns before ultimately leading him to the College of Business Administration, where he found both clarity and purpose.

After switching from psychology to biology to better align with pre-med requirements, Baessler performed well academically but began questioning whether medicine was the right long-term path. During the summer of 2023, a period of personal reflection and spiritual growth prompted him to seriously reconsider his future. He began seeking advice from mentors, including family members working in finance and medicine, and explored coursework outside of the sciences.

That exploration led him to economics, finance, and, eventually, accounting — a subject that immediately stood out.

“Accounting just made total sense to me,” Baessler said. “There was always a right answer, and I really enjoyed the structure and logic behind it.”

Baessler said his natural aptitude for math and logic helped make the transition smooth. He had taken AP Calculus and AP Statistics in high school and tested out of college-level math courses, allowing him to focus more directly on business coursework. In his first accounting class, he realized quickly that he had found the right fit.

“I remember walking out of my first accounting exam thinking I got a 100,” he said. “I missed one question, but it turned out my original answer was actually correct.”

Encouraged by his success, Baessler officially changed his major to accounting in the spring of 2024. He credited faculty members in the College of Business Administration for helping solidify his decision, including Dr. Erin Pleggenkuhle-Miles, Dr. Sona Klucarova, Professor Lori Simonsen, and School of Accounting Director Dr. Roopa Venkatesh, as well as other accounting professors who made a lasting impact on his education.

“Adam’s journey from pre-med to accounting exemplifies the dedication and purpose we encourage and cultivate in our students in the School of Accounting,” said Dr. Roopa Venkatesh, Director of the School of Accounting. “His academic discipline, success in the classroom, focused completion of the CPA exams, and commitment to serving local nonprofits make him an outstanding example of the Maverick spirit of our students.”

“Adam demonstrated outstanding analytical ability and attention to detail in my Individual Income Taxation course,” said Professor Lori L. Simonsen, CPA, MAcc, Lecturer in the UNO CBA School of Accounting. “In addition, his positive classroom presence and attentive engagement made the classroom environment more engaging for everyone. His success on the CPA exams highlights his commitment to learning and professionalism. I am so happy that Adam has found an area of accounting to practice that he finds rewarding on a personal level, in addition to a professional level. His experience highlights the vast opportunities available in the accounting profession, which I hope to convey to my students.”

“I really loved the accounting professors,” Baessler said. “I had great experiences in those classes and really enjoyed being part of the CBA.”

Baessler’s academic focus extended beyond the classroom. He earned a Regents Scholarship and graduated from UNO in just three years, completing 152 credit hours.

After graduating in spring 2025, Baessler passed all four sections of the CPA exam in approximately four and a half months. He is now working full-time at Bland & Associates, where he previously interned before completing his first accounting class. Rachel Turek, CPA, CFE, partner at Bland & Associates P.C., said Baessler stood out from the beginning.

“From the moment Adam joined the firm, he demonstrated a level of work ethic and preparedness that set him apart from his peers,” Turek said. “He arrived not just ready to learn, but ready to contribute. His time at UNO provided him with a strong technical foundation and prepared him to step into a professional environment with confidence and competence. What truly distinguishes Adam is his maturity — he communicates clearly, manages his responsibilities with minimal oversight, and consistently maintains high professional standards. Adam is not only prepared for the profession, but he is already making a meaningful impact.”

Baessler works in the firm’s audit department, primarily focusing on not-for-profit audits for local Omaha organizations. He said the work has allowed him to stay connected to the community while helping organizations secure grants and funding.

“I really enjoy working with local nonprofits,” he said. “It’s rewarding to help them get what they need to continue doing good work in the community.”

Baessler said his faith and personal relationship with Jesus Christ continues to play a central role in how he approaches his career and life goals. After identifying as an atheist earlier in his life, he said his beliefs shifted during the summer of 2023 and have since shaped his outlook on success and service.

“I want to be successful so I can give back — to churches, nonprofits, and people who need help,” Baessler said. “That’s really changed the direction of my life.”