Students' Stories
 I have always loved mechanical clocks and pocket watches. My interest in learning to repair them started when I took something I bought on eBay to a local clockmaker. He was so patient and explained the workings of the clock and the specialized tools used to repair them. I was fascinated and spent many hours watching him make and replace parts.
I enjoyed visiting the Museum with my husband years ago, before the new Museum building and School were built. Then recently I learned of the School of Horology by searching educational resources on the internet. I was excited by what I saw and started the Watch Repair Program in October 2003. Because the School is three hours from my home, I stayed in Columbia during the week and drove home on weekends. Then in June 2004, I returned to take the Reverse Painting Class. I truly enjoyed my experience at the School and felt I learned so much. I do feel that, for students, it is especially helpful to spend time with someone in the field, who can help build a general working knowledge of the business. With a little advance homework, more could be learned in class. Since graduation, I have started a small watch and clock repair business in my home. “Word of mouth” is the method by which I get most of my business, and I also occasionally get business forwarded to me through an area clockmaker. I am enjoying building my business slowly, while I work one day a week with a local watchmaker, and continue working part time as a pediatric nurse. What I love most about my new venture is that I get to work from home, an opportunity I never had before. I can set my own hours and I am my own boss! Back to Student Stories | 
