PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANCY MAJOR CREDITS BHSU’S STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY AND IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION FOR SUCCESS

“Throughout my time in the Marine Corps, it was instilled upon us that knowledge was power. After transitioning into the civilian life and continuing a higher level of education, it is crucial to not become stagnant in the processes of seeking information and obtaining knowledge,” Colin Highland stated.

Colin is active in the Veterans Club at Black Hills State University. He credits the support system of the Veterans Club and the BHSU professors to his educational success. Colin originally intended to enter the finance industry after graduation. With the mentorship of his BHSU professors, he realized the career he envisioned for himself fit the professional accountancy route and filled a high-demand need for a skills-based career in the Black Hills region. 

As a Rapid City native, Colin plans to raise his two children in the Black Hills. After spending six years in the Marine Corps, Colin settled in his hometown after being stationed at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Quantico, Va., and serving two deployments. 

“It is my overall goal to become a CPA here in Rapid City where I can help the local community and continue to grow my roots within the Black Hills,” said Colin. 

Colin started his post-education career online at the University of Maryland. Wanting an in-person education experience, he chose to transfer to Black Hill State University for several reasons. He looked for an AASCB accredited university that would honor his military education credits and offered an in-person and small class structure. He attributes his time in the military to helping him become a better student and says the structure of the military taught him the discipline to be successful in his education. 

“Despite the various challenges of leaving the Marine Corps, being a veteran at BHSU has been extremely influential in facilitating a smooth transition into pursuing a college education.” 

Reflecting on his experience at BHSU, Colin has been greatly impacted by Ella Schloe. He received the Schloe Family Scholarship in 2021. After hearing Ella’s story, Colin aspires to create a scholarship for veterans one day. He says he was touched learning the Scholes’ story. 

“Ella expressed that BHSU had an impact on her, and her goal is is have an impact on BHSU. That is why she started the scholarships,” according to Colin. 

As a non-traditional student, Colin balances working full time, family, and schoolwork. 

“Here at Black Hills State University, we have a very large active and prior military community that allows veterans like myself to find others in the same shoes with similar experiences,” said Colin. “Throughout this community I have been able to connect with many friends and mentors who have helped guide me through these various challenges that a veteran may face.” 

Colin is expected to graduate in December 2022 with a degree in Professional Accountancy.