An unexpected career

Morgan Gallentine, 23, grew up in Webster City, Iowa. She was homeschooled from third grade through high school. “I liked it for the most part. I think it taught me a lot about how to be organized, self-motivated, and self-sufficient. If I finished my work by mid-morning, the rest of the day was mine,” she says.

Gallentine believes being homeschooled made her transition to studying accounting at Central College in Pella and later at the University of Iowa a lot easier. “I was able to take college classes in high school, which got my foot in the door,” she said. Dual enrollment with Webster City public schools also allowed Gallentine to participate in social activities such as band, choir, and sports. Sports, especially, kept her connected  with others.  “Making friends as someone who is homeschooled is a bit hard, but participating in sports softened that blow,” she said. Gallentine played middle school and high school volleyball and then threw javelin at Central.

Teaching changed the lens

Though accounting was never on the table, she knew her love for math would lead her to the right program. With advice from her parents, Gallentine took an accounting class at Iowa Central Community College and loved it. So she continued on that accounting path at Central. Then, because she didn’t want to stop learning, she pursued a master's degree.

While working on her Master’s in Accounting at the University of Iowa, she served as a teaching assistant, which gave her a new perspective. “I had a whole new level of respect for teachers,” she said. She’s learned that sometimes the questions that might be considered silly or basic or simplistic can uncover meaningful solutions and learning opportunities are the ones that solve the problem. A skill she has applied quite recently while assisting in training a new employee in the Assurance, Advisory and Accounting Services department, as her questions have also taught Morgan new things.

Looking ahead

Morgan started at Grinnell Mutual as a co-op/intern and eventually was hired as an employee.

“I love my role and my team. And I love working from home with my silver Labrador,” she said. “I would love to stay with the company forever.” She also loves the flexibility, the environment, and the people around her. “I feel supported here.”

Gallentine is keeping her goal simple for now. She wants to keep learning, doing good work, and showing up as her best self at Grinnell Mutual, just as her team continues to show up for her.