Meet Liza

Name: Liza Cherussery

Class of: 2023

Program: Bachelor of Science in Accounting

"Donating to support the education of today's students is one of the most impactful and noble causes."

What do you like most about SNHU?

I'm an online student and I enjoy the modern interface — the courses are relevant and up-to-date, reflecting current events and situations.  I'm getting a lot of support from my academic advisor and career counseling, which helps me prepare for a bright future.

How do the scholarships and financial aid you receive make it possible for you to attend SNHU? Specifically, how have scholarships made a difference?

"Without the financial aid I would never have been able to return to school. As a mother of young children I have additional expenses and even though I'm working full-time, it's simply not enough. Scholarship money will allow me to move forward and graduate with much less loan debt. The pandemic made me realize how financially vulnerable I was. I was driven back to school by a desire to learn more about money and how to make good choices and get to a point of financial stability. This starts now by accruing the least possible amount of debt, while applying for internships, to ensure a smooth transition to a new career.  I'm so grateful to be a recipient of the Martha Van Hyland scholarship."

What would you say to those who donate to support student scholarships?

I was raised to value education and I will always believe that education is vital and empowering. Donating to support the education of today's students is one of the most impactful and noble causes. My father was the first in his family to attend college and went on to become a physician with a MPH. His decision and hard work changed the course of his own life, the life of myself and my sisters and will have poignant affect on the lives of our children as well. Education changes the trajectory of entire families. Thank you!

Why did you choose Southern New Hampshire University?

Southern New Hampshire University has a solid reputation and was willing to work with me in building on my previously earned BFA to earn a BS in Accounting. As a working mother, the online-only option made it possible for me to do this, but I like knowing that the campus is right here in my state. The online platform is modern, up-to-date and well-aligned with current happenings in the world.

What was your hope in receiving a college education? How has your experience been different than what you've imagined?

I hope to earn a valuable skill that will equate to a more financially stable future for my family. I never imagined I would get so much support from career counseling and I'm very excited about internship opportunities once I get a few more classes under my belt.

What inspired you to choose your area of study? What is your dream job?

I hope to earn a valuable skill that will equate to a more financially stable future for my family. I never imagined I would get so much support from career counseling and I'm very excited about internship opportunities once I get a few more classes under my belt.

Who at SNHU (professor, coach, advisor, etc.) has been the biggest influence on your college experience? What lessons did that person teach you?

I'm just beginning to work with my SNHU career counselor, but within just a brief phone call I felt a whole world of opportunity open up. I went from nightly worry and anxiety about graduating and not finding a job, to feeling confident and hopeful about internships, networking, and online job opportunities while in school.  We're just getting started!

In what ways have you been involved at SNHU (campus organizations, job, sports, etc.)?

This is my third term at SNHU and as an online student I'm only involved remotely. I do love access to the library and the support I get from my advisor.

What do you find most challenging? How do you deal with this?

The challenging thing is logging on each night after a full day of work and kids. It's tempting to do other things, but I have clear goals and feel so much better when I stay on track.

What are you proudest of?

I'm proud of discovering that I have skills in a field that is different from what I've done prior to this. I'm proud of the new perspective of the world that I've gained already.

In what ways do you want/hope to stay involved as an SNHU graduate?

I would love to support future students in whatever ways I can.  Working for SNHU would be my dream job.

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