Accounting Professor Extraordinaire

Charlie Sparks

A professor of Accounting at SOM, as well as Accounting Program Chair, Charlie received his BBA at UAF, and his MA and Ph.D. at the University of Iowa. Charlie was born in Alaska and has lived here all his life. Charlie enjoys the outdoors - camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, picking berries, you name it. He particularly enjoys the spectacular mountains and the wilderness.

Why did you choose to specialize in Accounting?
My first accounting instructor was the legendary Tom Bartlett. His was one of the first courses I took at UAF that really engaged and challenged me. As I progressed through the accounting program, I discovered it was a career path with many options, offering significant professional opportunities for advancement. I knew it was the “fast track” to top management.



What is your favorite class to teach?
I would have to say Accounting Information Systems–it is the foundation for most of what accountants do every day. It requires a strong understanding of the principles of internal control and the ability to critically apply these principles in a variety of contexts and entities.

What advice do you have for current students?
Hold off on getting that neck tattoo until you’re established in your career! Seriously, study hard and develop an understanding rather than just focusing on grades. By making connections between courses and your professional career, you develop more intellectually and have a stronger career focus.

Snapshot

Book you are currently reading? How to Catch a Pacific Salmon
Your last music download? “Heroes (live)” by David Bowie
One thing on your bucket list? Take my wife to Vienna for the holidays
Favorite place to vacation? Seldovia, Alaska