Viviana González, a certified public accountant, shared how she was able to pursue her college degree while working as a student from a rural area.
-When did you realize you had a calling to be an accountant?
-Although I’ve always liked “numbers,” in my senior year of high school we took a career aptitude test, and it turned out that my profile was best suited for a career in economics or engineering.
In any case, at first I was more drawn to computer engineering, so I completed my high school diploma in engineering and began my college studies in the School of Engineering.
During my first year, I realized that programming wasn't for me, so the following year I took the preparatory course at the School of Economics. That's how I reaffirmed my academic direction, since I loved the accounting course and did very well in it—which is why I decided to pursue this major.
-What caught your attention about the proposal from Universidad ORT Uruguay?
-Like many students who come from rural areas, after a few years my family found it difficult to support me while I was studying here, so I had to start working nine-hour shifts to continue my studies in Montevideo.
I continued at the University of the Republic, but given the frequent absences I had, the quality of the classes, the schedule, and other factors, it was very difficult to successfully complete my degree. So, after experiencing some disappointments, I decided to drop out. That’s when a classmate suggested I transfer to ORT, just as she had done.
He told me all about the benefits of personalized attention, excellent teachers, and access to materials and textbooks—just a few of the many advantages of a private education.
Fortunately, the university welcomed me with open arms, offered me a scholarship, and gave me the opportunity to take courses one by one; and by adjusting to my budget and schedule, I was able to make it work.
-What stands out to you about the program?
-I would highlight the excellent education offered across all disciplines—not only those directly related to the profession, but also the professional training they provide. This combination of required courses and general education subjects, workshops, lectures, and more.
-What is the relationship like between students and teachers?
-This is a really important factor. Like many others, I had to deal with attending a public university, where classes had over 100 students—not only was there sometimes no room for you, but it was also impossible to ask specific questions, for example.
The fact that you can stay in touch with your instructors outside of class via email and phone—even on weekends—is really important for those of us who work, because it allows us to make the most of that time and gives the instructor a chance to get to know you; all of that is very important.
Today, I have a very good relationship with several teachers, whom I admire for their dedication
-What has your career path been like?
-I started out as an accounting clerk at Tiempost Uruguay, and was later promoted to finance assistant. From there, I moved on to work as a payments manager at Prosegur Uruguay. Finance Assistant at Abitab S.A. And currently, after graduating in February 2012, I applied through my college’s job board for a position as an Accounting Analyst in June 2012 in Campiglia Pilay.
-What is your current role?
-I am currently working as an Accounting Analyst at Campiglia Pilay, a financial trust and investment firm. This position offers me an excellent opportunity for professional development, as I also assist in preparing financial statements and audits—both private audits and those conducted by the BCU (Central Bank of Uruguay).