HC Alum Finds Career Success & Happiness
Terri Jackson
Alumni / CPA & Teacher
Are you a current student or alumni?
I graduated from Herkimer College with my Associates degree in Accounting in 1989. However, in 2011 I took an on-line course to fulfill requirements for a second teaching certification.
Tell us a little about yourself.
When I graduated from Herkimer College with my AS in Accounting, I transferred to Ithaca College & earned my BS in Accounting. I then went to Binghamton University where I earned my Masters in Accounting and then took a position as a CPA with Price Waterhouse in Rochester, NY.
I loved my experience working as a CPA, but I had a desire to work in an educational setting where I could assist students in identifying their goals, as well as continue to coach softball and officiate field hockey.
I decided to get my teaching certification in Business Education because I could directly relate my own business experience. After a quick year of school, I received my first teaching position at Binghamton High School.
Once I got married I took a Business Education position at Unadilla Valley for 10 years and I am now teaching Business at Unatego Central School in Otego, NY. I love the daily interaction with the students, helping them explore career opportunities and learning business skills that will be beneficial in their own daily lives.
Additionally, I have been able to coach softball and officiate field hockey as well.
Why did you choose Herkimer College?
Herkimer had my chosen major, accounting, and also offered the opportunity to continue playing field hockey. Not to mention the cost was good and it was relatively close to home.
What are your greatest career and/or personal successes to date?
Passing the CPA Exam was a huge accomplishment and having the opportunity to work at Price-Waterhouse was a great experience that provided me with valuable hands-on experience that I can share with students in my business classes. Ultimately, I am thrilled to be able to teach business classes to high school students and help them explore college and career options.
How has Herkimer College helped you to succeed?
Attending Herkimer College was my first experience of being on my own and trying to achieve my career goals. I gained valuable education as well as the confidence to set my sights high.
Starting my education at a small school helped me have a smooth transition into the requirements of college life – both academically and athletically. It also provided me with a great stepping stone when I transferred to Ithaca College where I continued my education in accounting and played on the IC field hockey team.
What were some of your favorite things about attending Herkimer?
In addition to having a great group of professors/instructors, and a top-notch education, I really enjoyed participating on the women's field hockey team. Participating in a fall sport enables students to come to campus earlier than other students and get to know the lay of the land and other student athletes before the big rush of the first day.
Did you compete in a sport at Herkimer College?
I played on the Herkimer College women's field hockey team both years and I was a member of the very first National Championship Team for Herkimer College. It was an amazing experience with a great group of athletes and something I will never forget. While on the team I was named to the Regional All-Star team and named Academic All-American.
I believe sports and other types of extracurricular activities definitely help make individuals well-rounded and provides a sense of family and support for you while you are away at college. I highly recommend students get involved in a sport or organization that they enjoy to make the most of their college experience.
What advice would you give to future Herkimer College students?
Herkimer College is a great college at an affordable price. You will get a first rate education with instructors and staff that care and are willing to help you achieve your goals. Take advantage of every opportunity the college has to offer. You will not only make great memories, but you will be networking and you never know how that connection may help you in the future. Herkimer College Alumni have a strong connection and are always there to help each. Enjoy the experience, it flies by.