Betty Nielsen never saw herself working at a university. Her role as the assistant controller in Cashiering and Student Accounts at UNLV wasn’t part of her vision, but an unexpected learning experience became the ultimate opportunity.  

In 1998, Nielsen was a typist in a California school district when she began working her way up through technology. Why tech? Because of her father. An electronic technician for the U.S. Postal Service, he instilled in her an interest in computers and learning from a young age. “It’s important to always be learning,” she says, which is one reason a career in education is so fulfilling. 

Nielsen has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and computer information systems. Her role at UNLV taps into her breadth of experience in education and technology in addition to her deep well of empathy. Her department manages student accounts, collects tuition, distributes refunds, and much more. Perhaps most impactful, Nielsen empowers UNLV students by helping them problem solve issues with their accounts and balances. Here, her contributions have real, daily impact.

What inspired you to get into your field?

My goal was always to work in a school environment. I wanted the opportunity to impact students’ lives in a positive way. I never considered higher education — but once I got into it, I loved it. I’m committed. When it’s time to retire, I want to retire from UNLV.

For my current position, I was most excited about the budgeting side of things. Most of my career experience is in technology as an information systems coordinator, a systems analyst, and even help desk support. The financial side of things here was new and exciting. It was a learning experience, which is always something that motivates me.

What’s one thing you wish people understood about your role or department?

People think our office just cares about the bottom line, but that’s not true. We care about the students, and we want to help them however we can. We don’t just want their money. We want students to talk to us so we can understand what’s going on and help find solutions if they’re struggling with their finances. We want them to be able to focus on their education, and money shouldn’t be a barrier to that.

We know our faculty and staff can have a profound effect on their students, but tell us about a lesson you learned from a student.

Working in this department has been an eye-opening experience. I’m face-to-face with so many diverse students every semester, and they all run into different obstacles.

I recently helped an international student who was struggling to pay the balance on his account after graduation. Some situations in his home country had altered his ability to pay, and he was really worried about it. Despite everything that was going on for him, his biggest concern was doing the right thing and making sure he got his balance paid — even though he already had his degree.

It was definitely a learning moment for me about how I can think creatively to help students facing unique challenges. It was also a reminder that people want to do the right thing, and sometimes they just need more support.

What trait do you most like about yourself?

I’m ambitious. I set goals for myself, and I’m self-motivated. If I wasn’t that type of person, I wouldn’t be where I am today — especially since I became a mom at a younger age. I’ve always done what I need to do, and I like that about myself.

What trait would you change?

I could relax more. I’m always on the go and have multiple things in my head at the same time. As soon as I hear a problem, I’m processing how to solve it. That’s been very helpful in my life and my career, but I would like to be in the moment more instead of always thinking about the next thing.

Tell us about an object in your office and what it represents to you.

I have a tiger portrait in my office. It’s my zen. When I look at it, it brings me peace. I actually have a tiger tattoo, too. I think they’re beautiful animals. Gentle, but ferocious. Peaceful, cuddly, childlike, but also focused and powerful.

What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I’m a grandma! I have two grandsons. One is 11 and the other is 2-and-a-half. It’s so much fun because I’m not the one disciplining them. I get to just enjoy them. They call me Thama.

What was the last book you couldn’t put down, and why?

I’m a speed reader. I love to read, and I read fast! I really like biographies. I just read the biography of Anthony Keidis, the lead singer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. I was always a fan of the band, and reading it helped connect his story to the music I enjoyed growing up.

What do you think is the most underrated part of campus?

The Academic Mall. I love taking a walk through this part of campus. There is beautiful greenery that reminds me of California, and there are always students there doing different activities. It’s exciting; you really get to see campus life in action.

You just won Megabucks and want to give back to the university. What would you support and why?

Scholarships to assist students in getting their education — especially those struggling financially.

What’s your best tip for someone new to UNLV?

Explore the campus! Get to learn the buildings and experience it from a student’s perspective. Go to the Student Union, take walks on campus. See the events taking place. We don’t just work here; we’re a part of the experience, too. We can get stuck in our offices sometimes and lose sight of the purpose of what we do. Getting out onto the campus changes your perspective and makes you better understand why you work here.