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March 12, 2010
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SVHEC finance team mentors student

South Boston News
Chris Watson and Patty Nelson
The News & Record / February 08, 2010
It’s not every day that a student like Christopher Watson walks into the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center (SVHEC). Not only is he completing his senior year at Halifax County High School, but he is also juggling two jobs. Watson rises early to open the YMCA by 5:15 a.m. and to work before school. After school and on weekends, he works at the McDonalds in Centerville. Most students would be overwhelmed with this schedule, but Watson is working towards a goal, and each step gets him one step closer to it.

“When I was younger I was very good at math, and I usually did better when it involved money,” he said. “One day, my aunt told me I should be an accountant.” While he didn’t think much of it then, the seeds his aunt planted took root years later. Eventually Watson began researching accounting and thinking about pursuing a career in that field. His research brought him to the SVHEC where he met Patty Nelson and members of the SVHEC Finance Team.

Nelson, SVHEC director of finance and administration, spoke with Watson about how the accounting field works and introduced him to members of the SVHEC Finance Team who spoke with him about the areas of accounting they work in. Nelson, holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from James Madison University, a master’s degree in accounting from Virginia Commonwealth University, and is a certified public accountant. She is the chief financial officer for the SVHEC.

Nelson was immediately impressed with Watson, and she and the entire SVHEC Finance Team have become mentors to him. “I was so pleased to meet Chris and know he was thinking about his future,” Nelson said. “Accounting and finance are great careers to go into since so many companies needs employees with those skill sets.”

After graduation, Watson hopes to attend Longwood University or the University of Virginia to study accounting or finance. He also has the option of completing his degree at the SVHEC where several colleges offer degrees in business and accounting. “I’m happy to know that he is planning to go on to college and further his education. Higher Education will open so many more doors of opportunities for Chris,” said Nelson. Watson will also continue working with his mentors at the SVHEC to gain more experience with the field. “I really enjoyed my time at the Higher Education Center, and hope to apply for a summer internship there before I leave for college,” he said.

The Southern Virginia Higher Education Center is advancing the region by providing educational opportunities and connections. For more information, visit http://www.svhed.org or call 434-572-5440 and toll free 1-800-283-0098.


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