Staff Spotlight: La'Qwanda Trice
05 May 2015 11:18AM
For La’Qwanda Trice, a lifelong Durhamite and diehard Duke basketball fan, working at the university was a no-brainer. Today marks her one-year anniversary at Duke University and the Department of Economics. Trice, who also goes by “Q” in the office, first joined the Duke Economics team as a staff assistant, and she is now the accounting specialist in Suite 213. When she’s not hunting down errant P-card receipts from faculty and staff, Trice can be found at church or at Red Lobster, her favorite restaurant.
Trice graciously set aside time to entertain Duke Economics’ interview request, and confided in us her equinophobia, career aspirations, and the lessons she’s learned while working here.
Tell us about yourself.
As the accounting specialist in the department, I am the person who processes most of the financial transactions made using corporate (credit) cards and many of the reimbursements requested by visitors and employees. I came prepared for this kind of work because I have a B.A. in accounting from Howard University; however, I do see a lot of differences between what I learned in school and the work I do here.
I think some of the skills or qualities that I bring to the job are patience, a positive attitude, confidence, and the ability to keep calm. I think the team atmosphere and support of the staff really helps me a lot.
Why did you decide to major in accounting?
I decided to major in accounting because of my love for numbers, and because of my aunt, who is also an accountant. She works extremely hard but never seems to stress or complain about her work. Her job is very flexible and she is able to support her family comfortably.
Can you do my taxes for me?
Of course, but I’m not really a fan of taxes.
What have you learned in your year of working here?
Outside of learning how to effectively work the Duke system of processing reimbursements, clearing corporate card transactions, completing account transfers and deposits, and processing check request, I have also learned how to more effectively communicate with others to get the job done. Additionally, I have learned that understanding my colleagues’ different personalities and learning styles really creates a more stable work environment.
What do you like most about working at Duke and Duke Economics?
I love the unity and support that Duke has, and I love how Duke caters to the family environment and truly takes employee needs into consideration. In the Department of Economics, I love how we work as team. I love how everyone is truly invested in their work and will do what it takes to maintain the department’s good reputation. We encourage each other and understand the importance of everyone’s role here.
What would be on your wish list for your next five years at Duke?
I am really into athletics, so I would love to find a position at Duke Athletics. I’d like to find a job that allows me the opportunity to combine my business background and my enthusiasm for sports. I am a huge Duke fan! If I had to choose a favorite player on Duke’s basketball team right now, it would be Justise Winslow. I love the hustle, consistency, and strength that he brings to the team. If I could switch jobs with anyone at Duke, it would probably be with the person who manages finances for Coach K!
What’s something people here don’t know about you?
Most people here may not know that I am extremely afraid of horses! I do not like to be within five feet of them. They’re extremely big animals and it frightens me when they get agitated.
What was the best advice you ever received?
Never quit! My dad always told me that life is about being mentally tough and that when I start something, I should be ready to finish it. He made me realize that quitting is not just about me; it’s also letting down those who count on me.