July 21, 2011
by Max Green
Class of Summer 2011 Graduation Ceremony, July 6, 2011
The Class of Summer 2011 joined DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING (DB) in October 2010 as group of hardworking and eager-to-learn individuals and after nine months of hard work, they are now our second graduating class since the redesign. At the end of the program, we asked some of our graduates (Gias, Mohamed, Shelanda, Chrissone, and Sharon) their opinions about their overall experience with DB at The Bookkeeping Center (TBKC).
1. What were you doing before you started DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING?
Gias: Before starting DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING, I was working as an Administrative Assistant in a hospital.
Mohamed: I was a Store Manager at Metro PCS before I lost my job due to downsizing.
Shelanda: I was unemployed and the last job I had was at a rehabilitation center.
Chrissone: I just finished a 9 month work assignment that I got through a temp agency after college and was looking for another job. It was very hard to obtain a job due to the decline in the job market, and so I wanted to find a program that will help me improve the knowledge I had of accounting.
Sharon: Prior to signing up for DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING, I was employed on a part-time basis and dreamed of a full-time position within the accounting industry. After spending six years in college, my high expectations of finding a position hit reality. The economy had taken its toll on the job market and I was forced to temper my enthusiasm and adopt a patient outlook. However, I networked with my friends and colleagues while sending out as many resumes as I could.
2. How did you find out about DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING and what ultimately made you decide to enter into the program?
Gias: I went to Workforce1 on 125th Street to ask for government funding while I learned about bookkeeping. But the advisor there, Janet, told me my working experience wasn’t enough to receive government funding. I was so upset when I heard that. However, she suggested I go to The Bookkeeping Center for training. When I met Lynn Mercredi, the Director of Program, she gave me the opportunity to enroll in the program.
Mohamed: I was participating in an Upwardly Global program for professional immigrants seeking an accounting job and the organization appointed me to DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING at TBKC.
Shelanda: The New York State Department of Labor.
Chrissone: I found out about DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING from Workforce 1, where I’ve attended various workshops to help prepare me for the job market. In college, I’ve always enjoyed my accounting classes, and I felt that DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING would help me learn a lot more about accounting. In addition, it helped me decide if I wanted to pursue a career in accounting in the future.
Sharon: One day while having a conversation with a co-worker, who was also an accounting major, she mentioned that she was enrolled in a bookkeeping program and encouraged me to apply. At first, I was hesitant and then I remember thinking, why not? It was already Fall, work would conclude by the third week in December and I had no imminent plans. I picked up the phone, made some inquires about the program and requested the application form. The voice at the other end of the phone (Darin Webb, Founder) was friendly and informative. After visiting the website, I decided to apply for the program.
3. What was your favorite part about DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING and why?
Gias: My favorite part was the Computerized Bookkeeping semester when I converted all of my manual data into the computer software (QuickBooks, Peachtree, and MYOB) because it helped increase my skills and knowledge. In addition, I enjoyed the job-readiness workshops, especially the ones hosted by Lenin O. Gross (Director of Career Transitions & Job Coach at The Learning Disability Association of New York City). His advice helped me create a standard resume and taught me how to properly present myself when I am at a job interview.
Mohamed: My favorite part was learning the accounting software programs.
Shelanda: My favorite part was the Manual Bookkeeping, my classmates and the Instructor. I feel more comfortable working manually than on the computer, even though I have no problem with computer my classmates gave me the motivation to come back.
Chrissone: My favorite part about DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING was learning the different types of accounting software programs that are being used by businesses today. Such knowledge will help make me become more marketable when applying for jobs.
Sharon: Initially, I was very happy to get hands on training with different accounting software. The staff at DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING was very helpful and supportive but the success of any student weighed heavily on his/her ability to complete his/her projects individually. My favorite part of the program was the interaction with my fellow classmates; we helped and encouraged each other. At first, classes were held two days during the week and then switched to Saturday from 12-5pm. It was extremely hard to give up my Saturdays when everyone around me was doing fun stuff. There were many days I wanted to sleep in on a Saturday or go out with my friends. Instead, I went to class early and left late in an effort to complete my work. My classmates were very dedicated and they motivated me to show up. When one of us ran into difficulty, someone else neglected their work and assisted; we created a lasting bond. My thanks to Chrissone, Freddy, Camilo, Shelanda, Gias, Mohamed, and Mathew; we made a great team and you all played a major role in helping me to complete the program.
4. What are you planning on doing now that you’ve completed DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING?
Gias: At the current time, my plan is to do any bookkeeping-related work which can help increase my skills in the financial industry.
Mohamed: I’m looking hard to get a job in accounting and finance positions.
Shelanda: I will be interning at the Bookkeeping Company and looking for a part-time job in a bookkeeping position.
Chrissone: I am going to continue to look for jobs in accounting, and research various master programs to further my education.
Sharon: I found an accounting position as a result of networking with a student at DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING. Now that I have completed the program, my plans are to focus on work. In addition, myself and a few of my former classmates plan to form a study group and sit for the certified bookkeepers exam offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB); we completed the first two sections during our class and will strive to finish the four remaining sections to become certified. My long-term goal is to sit for the CPA exam.
5. How has DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING, and working with The Bookkeeping Center, had a positive impact on your life?
Gias: It gave me a new path to go forward in the financial industry.
Mohamed: DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING has helped me understand bookkeeping and accounting for the USA’s financial system.
Shelanda: I have new people in my life and a support system to work with me in this transition.
Chrissone: DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING has given me the knowledge I need about the different accounting software which will help me, and attending the Bookkeeping Center job readiness workshops have better prepared me for the job market.
Sharon: There are many positives to describe my experience as a result of attending the DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING program and interacting with the staff at The Bookkeeping Center. The program combined practical lessons with workshops that highlighted life skills. We were exposed to different ways to launch and sustain a successful career in the professional world. As a graduate of the program, one is equipped with the knowledge of how to create a resume and cover letter, the preparation that should precede an interview, the conduct expected during the interview process, and techniques to remain an asset to your employer after gaining a position.
6. Is there anything else that you’d like to say about your time at The Bookkeeping Center?
Gias: All of The Bookkeeping Center’s staff are so cooperative and helpful, especially Maurice, Mathew, and Lynn. They respond in a kind manner every time we interact.
Mohamed: I’ve had really good times with all of my classmates and TBKC. I appreciate the high standard of support from TBKC’S team.
Shelanda: I know that the Center will improve on clientele and whatever goals they are trying to accomplish. I am 100% supportive. If I am needed, the organization will know to ask.
Chrissone: The staff at The Bookkeeping Center is very professional, understanding and friendly. They were always there when I needed help with anything.
Sharon: My time at The Bookkeeping Center was well spent. I have established relationships with a group of professionals who I have come to admire and respect. I can’t say I had the greatest attitude at the beginning of the program. Sometimes my frustration got the better of me when I had to redo something I had been working on for hours or I was unable to figure out my next step. I have grown as an individual since enrolling at The Bookkeeping Center. I would like to thank Lynn Mercredi, the Director of Programs; her optimistic attitude and contagious laughter was something I looked forward to during my time there. I would like to say an extra special thank you to Maurice Smith, Founder and Instructor; his dedication and passion for accounting is inspiring.
TBKC is very happy and proud of our graduates. The organization would not have been able to grow if it weren’t because of our graduates and hence, TBKC is grateful for the relationships we’ve established. We are confident that the graduates of the Class of Summer 2011 will achieve their goals and find their ideal jobs soon.
Congratulations Class of Summer 2011! We thank you for dedicating your time and effort to DB and providing your feedback on ways to improve and continue the program.
Dear Friends,
DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING offers instruction in the fundamental tools of bookkeeping, computerized accounting, job readiness workshops and placement assistance. This specialized program consists of four 10 week courses. Each participant must participate in an a interview screening process with a detailed application where each student must illustrate their desire in starting or expanding their career in financial administration.
Eligibility criteria: DISCOVERBOOKKEEPING is a program intended for unemployed, under-employed and low-income individuals. You must accompany your application with official proof of income, proof of education, valid photo identification, and a resume. Intermediate English proficiency and computer skills are required. Individuals with previous experience in bookkeeping and accounting have the option to test out of the manual and computerized courses. For those who do not meet eligibility criteria, course is offered at a low, competitive rate. All applications submitted during registration must be accompanied by a non-refundable $50 application processing fee.
