After 30 years of service in state and local government, Rodney Bizzell could have called it a career. Instead, he decided to turn the page and start a new chapter — one focused on fresh challenges and new possibilities.
Bizzell, a financial analyst for the State Health Plan in the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer, spent the last 18 years of his career at the Fiscal Research Division of the General Assembly. As the team lead for the Economy and Taxation team, his work in tax policy sparked a growing interest in accounting. Retirement offered the perfect opportunity to pursue it.
He decided to enroll in the online NC State Jenkins Master of Accounting (MAC) program in 2023. “NC State’s MAC program has a great reputation with a well-developed online program. I was also impressed with the ASAP program for non-accounting majors. It allowed me to obtain the basic accounting prerequisites while pursuing my master’s,” explained Bizzell.
A New Beginning with the Jenkins MAC Program
The online Jenkins MAC program is designed for working professionals and offers the same rigorous coursework, expert faculty and student support as the on-campus experience. Though new to distance education, Bizzell quickly adapted to the supportive, interactive environment offered by the program.
“I was really impressed with the level of personal interaction, both with instructors and students,” he shared. His proximity to campus provided additional benefits beyond the virtual classroom. “Living near campus also gave me the chance to attend social events and meet many of the on-campus students.”
The flexibility of NC State’s online accounting program proved crucial for Bizzell’s success. Through careful planning and prioritization, he balanced his remaining work responsibilities, family commitments and academic coursework in a way that felt manageable.
His decision to proactively design his workload and schedule, combined with his supportive family and understanding colleagues, all helped him stay on track.
“I made several improvements in how I manage my time that I know I will continue after graduation,” he noted. “My colleagues at work have also been very understanding when I need to take time off for exams or projects.”
Impact and Experience in the Online MAC Program
Bizzell has already found ways to bring what he is learning in the classroom into the workplace.
“Accounting is such a versatile degree,” he said. “It’s been very easy to find opportunities in my role to work with financial statements, annual reporting and many other accounting-related functions,” said Bizzell.
The real-world application of the material has made the learning experience even more meaningful and practical. “It’s been really rewarding to see classroom concepts in the workplace and I look forward to continuing to apply that knowledge in the future,” he explained.
Throughout his academic journey at NC State, Bizzell has appreciated the guidance from dedicated faculty members. One professor in particular made a lasting impression.
“Scott has been a wonderful mentor and resource,” Bizzell said of Professor Scott Showalter. “He always has time for his students, and his positive attitude and passion for accounting have made this an incredibly rewarding experience.”
Advice and Future Plans
Having experienced a career transition himself, Bizzell now inspires others who are considering similar paths. “It’s never too late,” he explained. “Online education gives working professionals the flexibility to change careers or boost their career from any location. Technology has made education more accessible than ever, opening up learning and career opportunities to a wider audience.”
Bizzell plans to celebrate his achievement with family and friends during the in-person commencement ceremony at NC State.
When reflecting on his time in the program, he attributes much of his success to the supportive educational environment. “They are committed to the success of their students,” he said of the faculty and staff. “And NC State’s strong alumni network and resources open up valuable opportunities for the future.”
For Rodney Bizzell, retirement wasn’t the end of the road; it was the beginning of a new and exciting adventure. With determination, adaptability and a willingness to embrace the role of student once again, he has crafted a second act that promises continued growth and fulfillment.
Interested in advancing your career with the Jenkins Master of Accounting program from NC State Online? Visit the program page or online.ncsu.edu/programs for a full list of degree and certificate programs.
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