Elsa Jimenez-Mendez

Mastering the Language of Business: Insights from an Accounting Major.

Seattle, Washington, United States

About

I learned the value of hard work early on, which gave me the courage and drive to continually aim higher. At 15, I began working in the landscaping industry, where I negotiated and closed deals with clients—an experience that first connected me to the world of business. Inspired by my father, who built his own landscaping company, I pursued an associate degree in Business, where I discovered a passion for Accounting. Along the way, I strengthened my customer service, scheduling, and marketing skills through various side jobs, building confidence in communication and client relations. After earning my associate degree, I secured my first bookkeeping role—a milestone that affirmed my decision to pursue a career in accounting. Taking the initiative to personally research and visit local firms to deliver my résumé was one of the most rewarding steps in my professional journey. Today, I’m a senior at the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business, pursuing a triple major in Accounting, Finance, and Entrepreneurship with a minor in Real Estate. My long-term goal is to earn a Master of Science in Taxation and become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) by 2028. I’m committed to continuous learning and growth, always seeking opportunities to apply my skills and make a meaningful impact in the business world.

Experience

  • Business Administrator at JC Lawn Care
    Jul 2021 - Present · 5 yrs

    Scheduled appointments and resolved client concerns promptly to ensure strong customer relationships—coordinated job scheduling for timely, cost-effective completion. Prepared invoices, processed payments, and followed up on outstanding accounts. Renewed licenses and permits, filed Department of Revenue reports, and supported marketing efforts and quote negotiations.

  • Senior Sales Associate at Majestic Fireworks
    Jul 2023 - Present · 3 yrs

    Supported store setup and team training as a Senior Associate before opening. Greeted customers, assisted with purchases, and provided product recommendations. Accurately processed cash, credit, and debit transactions while maintaining a clean, organized sales floor and restocking merchandise. Ensured compliance with safety protocols for fireworks and stayed informed on promotions and discounts to enhance sales.

  • Pet Sitter at Elsa's Precious Paws Pet Sitting
    Feb 2021 - Feb 2026 · 5 yrs 1 mo

    Provided daily care for pets, including feeding, walking, and administering medication. Maintained a clean and safe environment for pets, ensuring their well-being and comfort. Communicated with the pet owner to provide updates on their pet’s well-being and address any concerns. Managed scheduling and payments ensuring timely and accurate service.

  • Bookkeeper at Your Local Bookkeeper (Monroe, WA)
    Jul 2024 - Mar 2025 · 9 mos

    Oversaw bookkeeping operations for nine clients, maintaining accurate financial records in QuickBooks and ensuring compliance with state reporting requirements. Proactively categorized transactions, reconciled accounts, and filed Department of Revenue reports on a monthly or quarterly basis. Delivered detailed financial reports, addressed client inquiries with clarity, and led regular client and team meetings to drive efficiency and ensure seamless operations.

  • Cashier at Grocery Outlet
    Jan 2024 - Jul 2024 · 7 mos

    Greeted customers and assisted them with their purchases. Processed transactions and handled cash, credit, and debit payments. Maintained a clean and organized sales floor and restocked merchandise. Followed store protocol and policies