From Belgium to Virginia: Wreshmina’s Accounting Career Journey

Wreshmina’s experience in the Keiter Cooperative

When Wreshmina Patman arrived in the United States from Belgium in 2019, she did not expect her path to lead her to a career in accounting. Having studied pharmacy in Belgium, she realized it wasn’t the right fit and found herself starting fresh in a new country.

Wreshmina, who is now studying at Mary Baldwin University, began her American studies at Reynolds Community College. She had always enjoyed working with numbers and being organized, and as she learned more about accounting and its importance to every business, she became increasingly motivated to pursue it as a career. Professor Sheila Betz, the head of accounting at Reynolds, encouraged her to apply for the inaugural Keiter Cooperative, or the Co Op, in conjunction with Reynolds. The chance to gain hands-on experience while still in school was exactly what she needed.

Overcoming early challenges

Though enthusiastic, Wreshmina admits the transition into her Co Op role, which is described as somewhere between an intern and an entry-level associate, wasn’t easy. She didn’t know the software, and didn’t have any relevant work experience. She felt overwhelmed and unsure of herself.

But she wasn’t alone. With help and guidance from her Performance Coach and supportive coworkers, Wreshmina gained confidence week by week. “Everyone was so patient and encouraging. They came to my cube and walked me through things step by step. I asked a lot of questions, and they always made time to help.”

Her persistence paid off. She eventually completed a complex 1065 tax return entirely on her own, a moment she says stands out as a turning point. “When I saw that the balance sheet matched and everything was accurate, it felt really good. That’s when I realized how much I had learned.”

Finding her career path

The Co Op gave Wreshmina the opportunity to spend six months with Keiter’s tax department, and six months with the BAAS department. This exposure helped her understand the differences between the two areas and clarify her career direction. Just as impactful was the realization that she wanted to work in a collaborative and kind environment, like the one she found at Keiter. The goal came to fruition when she was recently offered a full-time tax position, an outcome she had hoped for and eagerly shared with her family.

Keiter culture

For Wreshmina, Keiter’s supportive environment extended beyond training and professional development. As a Muslim woman who wears a hijab, she was moved by the firm’s respectful and inclusive culture. “In Belgium, I wasn’t allowed to wear my hijab at work or in many schools. But here, everyone asked what I needed to feel comfortable. HR and my coach even made space for me to pray at the office. It meant so much.”

Advice for future students

To any Reynolds students considering the Co Op, Wreshmina has this to say “Go for it, even if you’re nervous or don’t feel ready. You’ll learn by doing, and there will be people there to help you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. That’s how you grow.”

Wreshmina’s journey from uncertain student to confident team member is proof that with the right support, attitude, and opportunity, anything is possible.

About Keiter/Reynolds Co Op

In late 2023, Keiter partnered with Reynolds Community College to launch the Keiter Cooperative, an initiative designed to support students nearing the completion of their Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree and ready to begin a career in accounting. This program allows students to gain real-world experience while continuing their education, and it turn, Keiter is able to identify and nurture a strong pool of emerging talent.

Read more about careers at Keiter here.