Alumni Spotlight: Noor Mohammad, CPA, M.S. Accounting ’21
From Classroom to Career: How UIC Business Prepared Noor for Success
We caught up with Noor Mohammad, CPA (B.S. ’20, M.S. Accounting ’21) to learn how his time at UIC Business helped shape his early career success. After launching his career in public accounting, Noor recently joined Google’s corporate accounting team. He reflects on how the combination of rigorous coursework, professional development, and student involvement at UIC Business laid the foundation for his success beyond graduation.
Q: What aspects of your time at UIC best prepared you for your current role?
Noor: “The accounting courses were key for CPA preparation and understanding day-to-day job functions, but the BA [Business Administration] classes in professional development made the biggest impact in building soft skills, crucial to career success. They helped me craft my resume, build confidence, and learn how to effectively communicate with management, stakeholders, and clients.”
Q: Were you involved in any student organizations?
Noor: “Absolutely. I joined Accounting Club in my freshman year and Beta Alpha Psi in my sophomore year. Those experiences—along with networking events—really strengthened my ability to connect with people professionally.”
Q: You mentioned you’re in your fourth role in four years—what has that journey taught you, and what led you to your current company?
Noor: “Each role helped me understand a different piece of the business and refine what I was really looking for. I learned what I enjoyed, what environments I thrived in, and where I wanted to grow. Now I’m with Google, the company I see myself staying with long-term. That path of exploration—while sometimes uncertain—was essential in getting here.
Q: What advice would you give current students and new alumni?
Noor: “For students, take full advantage of everything outside the classroom—clubs, networking nights, and mock interviews. That’s where you develop the confidence and communication skills that employers value most. If you’re not confused, you’re not growing.”
“For new alumni, stay connected. Reach out to professors, attend alumni events, and keep building your professional network to open doors. Embrace change, and trust that it will shape your direction. It’s up to you to unlock your potential.”