Blaise Torrence credits the faculty at Southwest Baptist University with encouraging him to develop his talents, in addition to the academic preparation he received, as he pursued his degree.
“The comprehensive and detailed nature of courses within the Robert W. Plaster College of Business at SBU helped me develop a work ethic and a confidence that helped me excel in post-graduate school and my career beyond,” said Blaise ’20, who earned his bachelor of science degree in accounting. “Further, they wisely emphasized curiosity and a proper research mindset that led me to pursue the subjects I enjoy most.
“SBU faculty also were intentional to recognize the particular gifts I had and encouraged me to explore them. I can remember several one-on-one conversations and written notes that were vital in directing me toward the path I lead now.”
That led him to earning a master’s of accounting science degree with a concentration in international business from the University of Illinois in May 2021. He now works as an audit associate at Grant Thornton, LLC, in Milwaukee, Wis., but continues to do research in Illinois while staying in touch with his mentors at SBU.
“I have been a part of an Illinois research team exploring the methods and effectiveness of water-related disclosures within the reports of public companies – a topic I intend to explore deeper throughout my career,” Blaise said. “Despite living in Milwaukee, I still have mentors at SBU who I speak to at least once a month – professors, Residence Life (ResLife) leaders and even spiritual mentors.”
With the encouragement of those mentors, Blaise said his Christian faith “came into its own maturity.”
“I had the freedom to explore a richer faith, develop new insights within scripture, meet brilliant Christian scholars and question the roots of my own belief,” Blaise said. “I am confident that I transitioned to adulthood, standing firmer in Christ because of the guidance I found at SBU.”
And that is just one of the many ways, Blaise says, makes attending SBU a valuable experience.
“I’ve attended SBU and I’ve attended a state university of 45,000 students,” Blaise said. “SBU strives to make the academic experience both personal and enlightening for every student, and I can assure you that is a rare gift to find.”