Nick Muller
Staff Accountant – Kruggel Lawton CPAs
You just graduated from Indiana University South Bend— congratulations! What do your professional goals look like now that you’ve finished school?
I plan to start studying for the CPA Exam this summer and hope to pass a section before the end of the year. I would also like to continue to grow in the Client Accounting & Advisory Services department and assist clients with their accounting and bookkeeping needs.
You recently accepted a full-time offer from Kruggel Lawton after completing two busy season internships with the firm. What initially drew you to Kruggel Lawton?
After having conversations with a family friend, I knew I wanted to work in public accounting. Then, a friend from church introduced me to Kruggel Lawton (KL) and shared an internship opportunity I couldn’t pass up. After my first tax internship in 2020, I knew KL would become a place I could see myself working full-time after school because of the comradery and intentional time the partners and managers take to invest in their staff. The firm holds true to their values and understands the importance of flexibility and work-life balance.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I enjoy working with clients to understand their needs and provide insight on areas where our firm and I can help. I like public accounting for the diversity in the client work and the exposure to so many unique industries.
You have been restoring an old GMC van over the last year. What goes into that process?
I bought the van in November 2021. The winter cut my project short in the beginning, but weather permitting, I spent countless hours, days, weekends and late nights after school and work to complete the project. A little ambition and lots of trial and error went a long way.
What are your travel plans this summer in the van?
My girlfriend and I plan to travel to many of the National Parks in June. Our list includes the Badlands, Mt. Rushmore, Glacier, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and possibly the Grand Canyon. We enjoy hiking and sightseeing, so we’re super excited to experience the outdoors and visit these landmarks.
What advice would you give to students considering the profession?
If you enjoy not only numbers but also working with many different people on projects, public accounting may be for you. Don’t be afraid to take an internship. It’s a great opportunity to learn and get a feel for what full-time work is like after graduation.
What’s your favorite (or most used) app/technology and why?
QuickBooks Online. It’s streamlined and offers accessibility to clients near and far. I use it every day. It’s a great resource for reporting and day-to-day operations.
What is the best thing you’ve read recently?
I’ve started to pick up classic books such as “Fahrenheit 451,” “Catcher in the Rye,” “Of Mice and Men” and others. Recently, I finished reading “All Quiet on the Western Front.” I enjoy historical novels and books written in German. This book is also a favorite of mine because it tells the story of the experiences of German soldiers during WWI.
Would you like to be featured as the next Member Spotlight in Connect? Contact Katie Kirkton, INCPAS Creative Manager, at kkirkton@incpas.org for more information.