When Gregory Monaco ’18, M’19 first stepped onto the University of Hartford campus, he wasn’t entirely sure where his journey would lead. What he did know was that he had a deep curiosity about how financial systems work and how people and businesses make decisions. That curiosity, paired with inspiring mentors like Associate Professor of Economics Lilian Kamal, became the driving force behind his decision to pursue degrees in economics and finance, followed by an MBA from the Barney School of Business.
Greg’s academic experience at UHart laid a strong foundation, not just in business and finance, but also in confidence, communication, and leadership. “UHart gave me more than technical knowledge,” he shares. “It taught me professionalism and nurtured my curiosity.” Through tutoring in the Barney School, participating in academic support groups, and being involved in Alpha Sigma Phi and the National Society of Leadership and Success, Greg learned firsthand the value of teamwork, accountability, and community.
During his time at UHart, Greg gained real-world experience through a financial modeling internship with a local Hartford business and research projects under Professor of Economics Bharat Kolluri. He credits faculty members like Kolluri, Kamal, and Professor of Accounting Mahmoud Wahab for pushing him to pursue excellence and think critically, lessons that continue to shape his approach as a business leader today.
After graduation, Greg says he didn’t have it all figured out and he’s quick to reassure students that they don’t need to either. “It’s okay not to know exactly what you want to do,” he says. “What matters is staying curious, learning continuously, and caring about your work.” That mindset eventually led him to earning his CPA and ultimately to founding his own firm: Gregory Monaco, CPA LLC, based in Livingston, New Jersey, and serving clients nationwide.
Today, Greg reflects on the skills he developed at UHart, from technical knowledge to leadership and a client-focused mindset—all skills he has used to manage and grow his firm. Looking back, he credits UHart not just for his education, but also for the relationships, experiences, and guidance that shaped his path.
His advice for incoming students? “Try new things, ask questions, and trust that the right path will reveal itself. UHart gave me the tools; I just had to use them.”
Gregory Monaco ’18, M’19, University of Hartford AlumnusUHart gave me more than technical knowledge, it taught me professionalism and nurtured my curiosity.