Alex Hall chooses the work, not the workaround

 By Carter Ward

While many students are still learning accounting in theory, Alex Hall has spent more than two years applying it in practice. As a part-time staff member at BMSS Advisors & CPAs, she balances client work and busy seasons alongside upper-level coursework as a UAH Honors College student.

“Having to juggle that workload has been difficult,” said Hall. “If I have to put more into one area, that’s just what I do. But I also take time for myself and make sure I am not overdoing it.”

At her job, Hall is involved in day-to-day accounting operations, assisting with payroll processing, payroll tax filings and financial documentation. During peak periods, she takes on additional hours to help meet deadlines, applying concepts from her coursework directly to client work.

“I feel like I have a much more professional look on showing up to classes. I take it more seriously, like how I present myself and how I study and show up in class.”

Alongside academics and work, Hall participates in community service through BMSS Serve Days, where employees are encouraged to engage with local nonprofits. One experience that stayed with her was volunteering at Manna House in downtown Huntsville.

“People would come through the line, and I’d take the time to talk with them, asking how they were doing and trying to make a genuine connection beyond just handing out food.”

Academically, college pushed Hall to strengthen a deeper approach to learning. She said upper-level courses required more than just memorization.

“It solidified that drive to learn and actually take time to understand the material. Once I kind of made that breakthrough of seeking to understand and work hard to do the best I can, it was actually enjoyable.”

Her understanding of success has also shifted.

“Success is working hard in your career, being proud of yourself, but also outside of work just being a good person.”

When she feels overwhelmed, Hall steps back and reconnects with her faith, using that time as a weekly reset. She often spends those moments with family or friends.

“It’s a nice break and a way to catch up with people.”

Hall said she feels most proud when she receives feedback that helps her grow, whether from professors or supervisors.

“I really thrive off of not just praise, but also constructive criticism. Because it means that I have potential and I can be better.”

Looking ahead, Hall hopes people remember how she treated others and how she showed up day to day.

“Just being kind. Treating people with respect, no matter my mood, and helping however I can.”

Hall remains guided by how she treats others and how consistently she shows up. Whether in the classroom, the workplace or the community, she prioritizes reliability, growth and respect, carrying those values into every responsibility she takes on.