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Making learning count: An accelerated accounting journey
For Bachelor of Accounting student Ysabella Abel, studying at NMIT has been about building on existing experience and ensuring her learning genuinely adds value.
Through NMIT’s ‘Recognition of Prior Learning’ (RPL) initiative, the skills and knowledge Ysabella has gained in the workplace have been formally acknowledged, allowing her to progress faster through her degree and focus on learning that support her long-term goals.
A foundation in business
Ysabella’s interest in accounting began early, shaped by a strong family connection to business.
“I grew up surrounded by people with strong business backgrounds,” she says. “My grandfather taught in the Business department at NMIT for many years, and both of my parents work in the accounting industry.”
Although she enjoyed a wide range of subjects at school, accounting stood out for its versatility.
“As a foundational skill, accounting provides a strong base and offers the flexibility to branch into many different areas later in a career,” she explains.
Choosing NMIT
NMIT appealed to Ysabella for both practical and personal reasons.
“Studying the Bachelor of Accounting at NMIT allowed me to complete the same degree without taking on a large student loan, because I could stay in my hometown of Nelson,” she says. “The flexibility of the programme also made it possible to work while studying.”
Alongside her studies, Ysabella works in an accounting firm, allowing her to apply theory directly to practice.
“Combining industry experience with my coursework has given me a head start in my career,” she says.
Building on experience
With guidance from NMIT’s Applied Business tutors, Ysabella was able to formally recognise the experience she had already gained through work.
“Through this process, I was able to recognise the knowledge and skills I had already gained through my work experience and accelerate parts of my degree,” she says. “With time being such a valuable resource, it’s helped ensure that the time I spend studying is meaningful and adds real value to my learning.”
Industry & Community Liaison Georgia Thompson says Recognition of Prior Learning is designed to help learners make the most of the experience they bring with them.
“We recognise that valuable learning happens in many settings, not just the classroom,” she says. “It makes sense to take into account that prior experience when new learners enrol - it reduces duplication and allows them to focus on developing new knowledge and skills.”
Programme Support Coordinator, Olga Ebel said Ysabella’s previous work experience gave her a strong foundation in business and accounting, which meant she could apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
“She received credit for four courses in the Bachelor of Accounting programme, which reduced her study time by one semester and helped her complete her qualification faster”
“For working professionals like Ysabella who are studying part-time, RPL is a great way to have your existing skills and experience recognised, shorten your study time, and continue working full-time,” says Olga.
Support that makes a difference
Balancing work and study hasn’t been without its challenges, but Ysabella credits the support of NMIT staff for helping her succeed.
“One of my highlights has been the support I received from the Business faculty,” she says. “The staff have been very approachable and helpful.”
Applied Business Tutor Mark Wilson describes Ysabella as a standout student.
“Ysabella has been an outstanding student in my classes - engaged, positive, and always willing to contribute. Her experience working in an accounting firm allows her to share valuable real-world insights with her classmates, helping apply the concepts we learn in class to current industry practice. She is diligent, reliable, and produces consistently high-quality work,” says Mark.
Looking ahead
Ysabella plans to continue developing her accounting experience, with longer-term goals of growing her own business, AbelCare, and exploring other ventures.
“Building a strong foundation in business through my studies at NMIT will help support these plans,” she says.
For others considering study alongside work, her advice is simple:
“Being able to apply what you study directly to your job makes the learning more meaningful. The commitment is worth it, and studying at NMIT has paid off for me.”
