Breaking Barriers in Accounting: Neel Patel’s Engaging Teaching Methods

Neel Patel, an accounting professor at UIC Business, has been transforming the traditional classroom experience with his innovative and engaging teaching approach. Renowned for his interactive class activities and strong emphasis on student engagement, Patel has made a notable impact since joining UIC as a professor in January 2023. He was recently honored with the HOPE Award (Honoring Our Professors’ Excellence), which recognizes faculty who have made a lasting impact on the lives of Campus Housing residents.

“This faculty member has gone above and beyond by learning student names and having review sessions for exams. He dedicated two hours of his time to help me catch up on two weeks’ worth of material just so I could understand and do well on the quiz we had on my second day of class which was in the third week,” shares student Denise Lopez, BBA ’27, who nominated Professor Patel.

Patel’s journey at UIC began as a student, where he earned both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in accounting.  During this time, he also served as President of the Accounting Club, demonstrating his early leadership and strong interest in the industry. After graduation, he gained experience in both public and private accounting, including a role as an external auditor at Ferrara Candy Company. Following a layoff, Patel maintained his connection with UIC Business and co-founded the Coaching Program with Professors George Scully and Garrett Prybell. This initiative has successfully helped 94% of its participants secure internships, showcasing Patel’s commitment to student success. Realizing his passion for teaching and his desire to make a lasting impact on future generations, he joined UIC Business as a Professor in 2023.

Patel is changing the way accounting is perceived and taught. While many students come into the class with preconceived notions about accounting being complex and intimidating, Patel strives to make the subject engaging and approachable. On the first day of class, he asks students to write down their thoughts about accounting and the goals they want to achieve. At the end of the course, he returns these lists to the students and asks them to reflect on whether they achieved their goals and how their perceptions of accounting have changed.

Along with teaching accounting concepts, Patel emphasizes the importance of becoming an effective learner. “I believe students can become the best version of themselves when they realize there is so much more beyond just textbook information,” Patel explains. “After graduation, I want my students to have real skills that they take with them wherever they go in life. Building confidence, making friends, and learning to navigate the world independently is crucial.”

Patel also seeks to build stronger and more comfortable relationships with students by fostering a supportive and interactive environment. He posts funny Instagram Reels for students, allowing them to engage with him beyond the classroom. “I felt there were many things I could highlight that students might enjoy or feel more connected to me. If students don’t feel comfortable with their professor, there’s a big wall that prevents them from accessing valuable information. My goal is to lower that wall,” shares Patel.

After each quiz, Patel allows students to pick a challenge, select a representative from the group, and compete against him for a chance to win three extra credit points. This activity completely changed the mood of the students before the quizzes. They started to prepare more, engage with each other, and look forward to quizzes.

These activities build a sense of community, enhance collaboration, and make learning more enjoyable and memorable. Patel’s innovative approach improves academic performance and helps students develop essential life skills, fostering personal growth and long-lasting relationships.