29 answers
Alyssa
Student
McSherrystown, PA
1
Question
Updated
633 views
How did you decide which type of accounting was right for you?
I'm a current high school senior, planning to attend Shippensburg University for my bachelor's in accounting. How would I know whether tax, auditing, corporate, or forensic is best for me?
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29 answers
Christine Tavanello
Recruiter
1
Answer
Columbus, Ohio
Updated
Christine’s Answer
Hi Alyssa! I would recommend to reach out to professionals in tax, audit, corporate, and forensics to understand their day-to-day and how they serve clients. Hands-on experience—shadow days or internships—will be invaluable for figuring out what you enjoy. Check out https://www.theforage.com/ for virtual simulations in these fields and lean on your classes and professors; they’ll help you spot opportunities and refine your interests.
Shannon Zulauf
Risk & Independence
67
Answers
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Updated
Shannon’s Answer
Congratulations on choosing a major—honestly, that alone can feel overwhelming, so you’re already ahead. I didn’t know what type of accounting I wanted to focus on when I chose the major either.
The good news is that early accounting courses are designed to expose you to different areas. As you take them, pay attention to what you enjoy—not just what you’re good at. Do you like problem-solving and digging into details? Do you enjoy rules and structure? Do you like understanding how a business operates day to day?
For example, when I was in school, forensic accounting wasn’t offered, but I really enjoyed cost accounting because of its detail-oriented structure. Before starting my career as an auditor, I completed an internship where I was exposed to a fraud investigation. That level of detail was similar to what I enjoyed about cost accounting—different in practice, but built on similar concepts.
When I began my career in public accounting as an auditor, I was able to work across different industries, collaborate with teams in tax and consulting, and see many different types of financial structures. That experience helped clarify what I liked—and didn’t like—before ultimately specializing. I spent three years in audit before transitioning into Forensics and Investigations.
My biggest advice is not to feel pressure to decide immediately. Many people don’t truly figure it out until internships or even their first job. Use your classes, internships, and conversations with professors and professionals to guide you—you’ll learn a lot simply by experiencing the work. Good luck!
The good news is that early accounting courses are designed to expose you to different areas. As you take them, pay attention to what you enjoy—not just what you’re good at. Do you like problem-solving and digging into details? Do you enjoy rules and structure? Do you like understanding how a business operates day to day?
For example, when I was in school, forensic accounting wasn’t offered, but I really enjoyed cost accounting because of its detail-oriented structure. Before starting my career as an auditor, I completed an internship where I was exposed to a fraud investigation. That level of detail was similar to what I enjoyed about cost accounting—different in practice, but built on similar concepts.
When I began my career in public accounting as an auditor, I was able to work across different industries, collaborate with teams in tax and consulting, and see many different types of financial structures. That experience helped clarify what I liked—and didn’t like—before ultimately specializing. I spent three years in audit before transitioning into Forensics and Investigations.
My biggest advice is not to feel pressure to decide immediately. Many people don’t truly figure it out until internships or even their first job. Use your classes, internships, and conversations with professors and professionals to guide you—you’ll learn a lot simply by experiencing the work. Good luck!
Jeff Clement, CPA
Finance Director
2
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Explore a variety of courses during college to discover what truly excites you. Finding your passion is important since you'll spend a significant part of your life working. I tried several internships while completing my Master's degree, and I highly recommend this path. I initially interned in Audit, thinking it was my future, but then had a chance to intern in Advisory. This experience shifted my career path as I realized my true interests lay there. Wishing you the best as you make your decisions!
Madisen Mead, CPA
Auditor
5
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Madisen’s Answer
Hi Alyssa! My friend first aimed for a tax job but then switched to audit. What's great about accounting firms is they offer lots of choices. If you start an internship in one area and find you like another, the company is usually okay with that. Many people I know have switched roles within the firm to find what fits them best.
As for me, I started as an auditor and wasn't sure what direction to take. But I chose to look at company financials, which has been really interesting. It helps me understand how businesses earn money and operate!
As for me, I started as an auditor and wasn't sure what direction to take. But I chose to look at company financials, which has been really interesting. It helps me understand how businesses earn money and operate!
Bruce Lane
I am a CPA and now work in Software Sales with Microsoft.
8
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Bruce’s Answer
Alyssa, gaining experience will be key in finding the right path for you. Try to connect with mentors who have backgrounds in public accounting and industry, like your university professors. It's important to explore each area of accounting yourself. Early in my career, I had the chance to try different fields, and it was really helpful. Look for jobs at firms that let you experience both audit and tax, at least. Keep in mind that bigger firms might not offer a wide range of experiences. You’ve got this, and exploring these opportunities will guide you to the right fit!
Jessica Sherry
Human Resources
4
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Hi! First off, congrats on getting into Shippensburg - my husband went there! I would say, similar to some of the other responders, I don't think you need to decide which area of accounting you want to focus on yet - just start out by getting a solid accounting education and seeing which area you you like best or feel like you enjoy the most! From what I remember when I was in college, your first few courses in accounting are pretty broad and set up to expose you to a variety of different types of accounting.
For me, some of it came down to who I would be working with. I was planning to intern with a big 4 my junior year and during some of the introduction meetings, I had the opportunity to meet people from the different firms and different areas of accounting. That was really how I made my first decisions - which firm and then which side - Audit or Tax. And then I got to meet even more people once I decided which side, which helped me figure out what area to focus on.
And also - one of the best things about having an accounting degree is that it's so versatile that you can adjust and change as you grow and learn! So what you pick today might not be what you end up doing forever and that's 100% ok - in fact many people I work with have changed courses as they've gone throughout their career! Being adaptable and open to change is a great skill!
Best of luck and enjoy the rest of your senior year!
For me, some of it came down to who I would be working with. I was planning to intern with a big 4 my junior year and during some of the introduction meetings, I had the opportunity to meet people from the different firms and different areas of accounting. That was really how I made my first decisions - which firm and then which side - Audit or Tax. And then I got to meet even more people once I decided which side, which helped me figure out what area to focus on.
And also - one of the best things about having an accounting degree is that it's so versatile that you can adjust and change as you grow and learn! So what you pick today might not be what you end up doing forever and that's 100% ok - in fact many people I work with have changed courses as they've gone throughout their career! Being adaptable and open to change is a great skill!
Best of luck and enjoy the rest of your senior year!
Laura Stanza
Human Resources
6
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Laura’s Answer
Hi Alyssa - from my experience, finding a field that you are passionate about even before you experience college courses is a huge step! It took me 3 years taking classes across a spectrum of majors before I took my first accounting course - and it immediately felt like the right fit for me. As some of the others have said, lean on the resource available to you once you enter college - speak with your professors, talk with classmates who have had internships and participate in student forums that allow you to interact with professionals in different fields of accounting (accounting clubs, business fraternities). You can also get acquainted with the career services staff at your university who can be helpful to you when it comes time to seek an internship for yourself. Keep in mind your interests may change over time - but every experience you have is helping you build skills for the future - the beauty of a major like accounting is that it can set you up for success in many roles in business. And, you can always pivot and try different areas! I navigated away from accounting at my company and landed in an internal role that still puts data and analysis skills to work! You may find yourself in a similar position. Seize the day - you have already made a very wise choice by choosing the field of accounting for your major!
Melissa Watland
Finance
1
Answer
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
Hi Alyssa! As you get ready to start your accounting degree at Shippensburg University, a good first step is to explore what each area of accounting really involves and think about what fits your interests best. Tax accounting focuses on helping people and businesses with their taxes, auditing is about making sure financial records are accurate, corporate accounting involves managing finances within a company, and forensic accounting is like detective work, investigating fraud. Taking some introductory classes and electives will give you a taste of each field so you can see what excites you the most.
You might also want to look for internships or part-time jobs during college to get real-world experience in different specialties. Don’t be afraid to chat with your professors, advisors, or even alumni from Shippensburg to hear about their journeys—they can offer great advice and possibly help you find opportunities. Think about whether you enjoy detailed, rule-based work, problem-solving and investigation, or strategic financial planning, because your preferences will guide you to the best fit. Remember, with time and experience, your path might become clearer, and you can always explore certifications that align with your goals down the road. Good luck, Alyssa!
You might also want to look for internships or part-time jobs during college to get real-world experience in different specialties. Don’t be afraid to chat with your professors, advisors, or even alumni from Shippensburg to hear about their journeys—they can offer great advice and possibly help you find opportunities. Think about whether you enjoy detailed, rule-based work, problem-solving and investigation, or strategic financial planning, because your preferences will guide you to the best fit. Remember, with time and experience, your path might become clearer, and you can always explore certifications that align with your goals down the road. Good luck, Alyssa!
Kristen Roth
Human Resources
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kristen’s Answer
Alyssa - Congratulations on starting your next chapter at Shippensburg University in accounting next year! You're asking this question at the perfect time. When I started in accounting at school, I leaned on the required courses in my program to help me understand each area of the business better. As I progressed, I learned which courses I enjoyed more than others and felt like I got a preview into each. My school had many people interested in Audit, but personally I knew that wasn't for me! When professionals came on campus and through different programs, I talked to them about the work they did and what they enjoyed about it. I will never forget I had a Tax interviewer that sold me on Tax in how he explained how his clients appreciate his help and the strong working relationship they have. I only had 2 Tax classes in my program at school, so I chose to do a Tax internship and I loved it! The rest was history after that and to this day, I say it was one of the best decisions I made in trusting my gut and leading me to where I am today. Stay open and curious - I'm excited for you to start your journey!
Julie Wang
Audit
1
Answer
Downingtown, Pennsylvania
Updated
Julie’s Answer
I’m currently working as an auditor at one of the Big Four accounting firms, but before starting my full-time career, I had the opportunity to intern in tax accounting while I was still in college. I chose that internship intentionally because I wanted real exposure to tax and a better sense of whether it was the right fit for me before committing to a specific path in accounting. That experience was incredibly valuable because it helped me understand what the work actually looked like day to day and gave me more clarity about the direction I wanted to take.
If you’re unsure which area of accounting to pursue after college, I highly recommend seeking out internships or early experiences in different fields. Getting hands-on exposure can make all the difference in helping you discover what aligns with your interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Even if you end up choosing a different path, the experience will still teach you something useful about yourself and your career.
If you’re unsure which area of accounting to pursue after college, I highly recommend seeking out internships or early experiences in different fields. Getting hands-on exposure can make all the difference in helping you discover what aligns with your interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Even if you end up choosing a different path, the experience will still teach you something useful about yourself and your career.
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
650
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hello Alyssa. As a lecturer who teaches accounting and business courses, I can tell you that most students don't know right away which type of accounting is best for them. That's completely normal. Most people figure it out by taking different classes, trying internships, and noticing what type of work feels comfortable and interesting.
A helpful first step is understanding the differences between each field. Tax accounting is about preparing tax returns, learning tax rules, and helping people or companies plan their finances. It's good for people who enjoy detailed work and solving problems. Auditing means checking financial records to make sure everything is correct and follows the rules. This is a good fit if you like investigating, asking questions, and working in teams. Corporate accounting takes place inside a company, helping with budgeting, financial statements, and internal decision-making. It's ideal for students who want stability and enjoy being part of a long-term team. Forensic accounting deals with fraud, money crimes, and financial investigations. If you enjoy solving mysteries and looking for clues, this might be exciting for you.
Your first two years of college will give you time to take introductory classes in each area, and these courses often make your interests clearer. Ask yourself: Which topics make you curious? Which assignments feel fun or satisfying? Which ones feel boring or stressful? Your reactions can help point you toward the right specialty.
Internships are also extremely helpful. Even one short internship or job-shadowing experience can teach you more about a field than reading about it. Many students discover what they want to do simply by trying something hands-on. Sometimes you'll be surprised, something you never thought you'd like might end up being the perfect fit. All the best to you.
A helpful first step is understanding the differences between each field. Tax accounting is about preparing tax returns, learning tax rules, and helping people or companies plan their finances. It's good for people who enjoy detailed work and solving problems. Auditing means checking financial records to make sure everything is correct and follows the rules. This is a good fit if you like investigating, asking questions, and working in teams. Corporate accounting takes place inside a company, helping with budgeting, financial statements, and internal decision-making. It's ideal for students who want stability and enjoy being part of a long-term team. Forensic accounting deals with fraud, money crimes, and financial investigations. If you enjoy solving mysteries and looking for clues, this might be exciting for you.
Your first two years of college will give you time to take introductory classes in each area, and these courses often make your interests clearer. Ask yourself: Which topics make you curious? Which assignments feel fun or satisfying? Which ones feel boring or stressful? Your reactions can help point you toward the right specialty.
Internships are also extremely helpful. Even one short internship or job-shadowing experience can teach you more about a field than reading about it. Many students discover what they want to do simply by trying something hands-on. Sometimes you'll be surprised, something you never thought you'd like might end up being the perfect fit. All the best to you.
Veronica Soto
Human Capital
3
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Veronica’s Answer
Hi! In my experience, the time in college/university taking the required courses to graduate with an accounting degree gave me some clarity. I found that I enjoyed some courses more than others - for example, I enjoyed forensics and auditing over my tax courses. While in college, I intentionally attended career fairs to get to know individuals who worked in these fields and asked them questions on their day to day. I joined extracurricular groups like MAHA and signed up for a semester internship at a smaller company to find out if it felt right. With all this said, once in the workforce, I used my degree and went into audit for a total of 5 years. I then found a new passion while working and moved into Human Resources. I loved working and helping people in business. You can say I personally found my way and have had success in the Firm. I stayed in the same Firm that I audited - just changed departments. I found my way and I know you will find it too!
Tami Beresky
Risk Management
1
Answer
Upper Saddle River, NJ
Updated
Tami’s Answer
Congratulations on choosing your major! The first few years of college will give you the opportunity to explore a range of accounting courses, helping you build a strong foundation and better understand the different paths within the field. I strongly encourage you to seek out externship or internship opportunities along the way, as hands-on experience can be incredibly valuable in discovering where your interests truly lie. Wishing you continued success as you move forward—this is an exciting step in your journey.
Meghan Yoder
Recruiter
2
Answers
Kansas City, Missouri
Updated
Meghan’s Answer
One helpful way to decide which accounting path might be right for you is to take time to explore and learn from others. Creating a LinkedIn account can be a great first step—it’s a free and easy way to discover different career paths and connect with people who are happy to share their experiences.
A great place to start is by reaching out to people who graduated from your school. They’ve been exactly where you are and often enjoy offering advice and encouragement. You may be surprised by how quickly your network grows!
If you come across someone in a role that sounds interesting, you can politely ask if they’d be open to a short virtual coffee chat. Most professionals are very kind and excited to help students who are curious and eager to learn. These conversations can make different types of accounting feel much clearer and help you discover what excites you most.
A great place to start is by reaching out to people who graduated from your school. They’ve been exactly where you are and often enjoy offering advice and encouragement. You may be surprised by how quickly your network grows!
If you come across someone in a role that sounds interesting, you can politely ask if they’d be open to a short virtual coffee chat. Most professionals are very kind and excited to help students who are curious and eager to learn. These conversations can make different types of accounting feel much clearer and help you discover what excites you most.
Jess Franco
1
Answer
Westfield, New Jersey
Updated
Jess’s Answer
Hi Alyssa! I hope your senior year is going well, and congrats on choosing Shippensburg University!
When I studied accounting, I wasn't sure what to focus on either. Here are some tips that helped me and might help you:
- Take as many accounting courses as you can. This will help you find what you like. I enjoyed public accounting and auditing because they mixed math and detail with teamwork.
- Use your campus career center or advisors. Ask if companies that hire accountants visit your school and check if there's an alumni database to connect with graduates in accounting. Being proactive will open up more opportunities.
- When talking to career advisors, see if there's someone who works with accounting majors. Ask about internships and how to apply. I did an audit internship after junior year, which showed me the real-world job aspects.
- Talk to as many people as you can—friends, family, professors—about your interest in accounting. You'll learn a lot and expand your network. Even those not in accounting can share useful insights.
I hope this helps. You're on the right track by seeking advice. Best of luck with everything!
When I studied accounting, I wasn't sure what to focus on either. Here are some tips that helped me and might help you:
- Take as many accounting courses as you can. This will help you find what you like. I enjoyed public accounting and auditing because they mixed math and detail with teamwork.
- Use your campus career center or advisors. Ask if companies that hire accountants visit your school and check if there's an alumni database to connect with graduates in accounting. Being proactive will open up more opportunities.
- When talking to career advisors, see if there's someone who works with accounting majors. Ask about internships and how to apply. I did an audit internship after junior year, which showed me the real-world job aspects.
- Talk to as many people as you can—friends, family, professors—about your interest in accounting. You'll learn a lot and expand your network. Even those not in accounting can share useful insights.
I hope this helps. You're on the right track by seeking advice. Best of luck with everything!
Alan Burke
Accounting Manager - Fixed Assets
1
Answer
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Alan’s Answer
Hi Alyssa,
I am a Shippensburg University Alumni who also went there for a business degree (many years ago!).
At that time, I didn't really know much about the different career paths one could take but gained that understanding as I took different classes and talked to professors and other students. So I would recommend taking a variety of classes and not ruling out any specific track.
I eventually gravitated toward accounting and auditing and after graduating took a job with a regional CPA firm in their audit department.
I loved it because it gave me the opportunity to work on a variety of clients in different industries such as banking, oil and gas, non-profit, construction and manufacturing. I got to learn about how each client's business operates. I also got to learn a great deal about all aspects of their balance sheet and income statement. Because I traveled and worked at the clients site, this also provided many opportunities to meet new people and work with all levels of management. Eventually, I left public accounting to work in industry for one of my clients. But I think the audit track is an exceptional option when starting out to gain overall business expertise and identify what really interests you .
I am a Shippensburg University Alumni who also went there for a business degree (many years ago!).
At that time, I didn't really know much about the different career paths one could take but gained that understanding as I took different classes and talked to professors and other students. So I would recommend taking a variety of classes and not ruling out any specific track.
I eventually gravitated toward accounting and auditing and after graduating took a job with a regional CPA firm in their audit department.
I loved it because it gave me the opportunity to work on a variety of clients in different industries such as banking, oil and gas, non-profit, construction and manufacturing. I got to learn about how each client's business operates. I also got to learn a great deal about all aspects of their balance sheet and income statement. Because I traveled and worked at the clients site, this also provided many opportunities to meet new people and work with all levels of management. Eventually, I left public accounting to work in industry for one of my clients. But I think the audit track is an exceptional option when starting out to gain overall business expertise and identify what really interests you .
Kimberly Sánchez Munguía
Finance Services_TAX AC
3
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Hi! Well, when I started my career I didn't know what accounting path to choose and a teacher said me: accounting is so graceful with all the students, is not necessarily follow one but choose what you feel cool (I think he referred where you could find your style). So, I got some teachers that gave some school subjects that I got interested and others than I didn't pay attention. At the end, I gave him the reason not to all are for determinate thing and that's ok. Everything is a rainbow and don't get stuck only on white and black colors ;).
vidya Iyer
Risk Compliance
3
Answers
South Brunswick Township, New Jersey
Updated
vidya’s Answer
Hi Alyssa - Great question! In high school I did not have accounting as a subject and my exposure to it was really in college. In college I really enjoyed corporate accounting and was almost sure I would stay with that but a summer internship working for a small audit firm changed my decision and I ended up going with auditing.
I would ask that you to connect and network in college with your seniors, professors and if possible join any specific business/accounting clubs as they will open your world to different applications of this degree and you may hear something you get further interested in. If you like a few areas then next steps would be to gain some experience by doing an internship.
Make a list of what you liked and what you did not enjoy and that can help you make your decisions in an objective way. Its also ok to change/pivot even after your initial few years in a specific career as this degree teaches us key skills around analytical thinking, problem solving that can be used across different domains/industries as well! Good luck !!
I would ask that you to connect and network in college with your seniors, professors and if possible join any specific business/accounting clubs as they will open your world to different applications of this degree and you may hear something you get further interested in. If you like a few areas then next steps would be to gain some experience by doing an internship.
Make a list of what you liked and what you did not enjoy and that can help you make your decisions in an objective way. Its also ok to change/pivot even after your initial few years in a specific career as this degree teaches us key skills around analytical thinking, problem solving that can be used across different domains/industries as well! Good luck !!
Kimberly Almonte
CPA
2
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
I would highly recommend as you pick the accounting elective courses to ensure you are picking from a variety of audit, tax, financial accounting, etc. Also, keep an eye out on internships and other opportunities to gain exposure to the different aspects and environments.
Lori Ketola
Human Resources
2
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Lori’s Answer
I suggest trying internships in various fields to see which one suits you best.
Kerry Stakem, CPC, ACC
Northeast People Leader at PwC
9
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Kerry’s Answer
My dad said that accounting is the language of business, and it's a great place to start your career. It opens up many opportunities if you decide it's not for you. I began in audit and have stayed with the same firm for almost 30 years, changing roles over six times without leaving. I often remember his advice and believe it was the best decision for my career. I wouldn't change a thing and would choose the same path again.
Kelly Schroder-White
Human Resources
1
Answer
Babylon, New York
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
Congratulations on choosing accounting as your major, it's a field with amazing future opportunities!! My advice it to try them all! Often times Audit is offered earlier in your college career than Tax - but don't count anything out! Seek out shadow opportunities or internships to see different types of accounting in action. Continue to build your network and take advantage of speakers that come onto campus to share their experiences.
Alexandra Grashkina-Hristov
International Tax Professional
188
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Alexandra’s Answer
Hi Alyssa, I chose to go into tax after a 10-week internship during the summer after my second year of law school. Even though I'm not a CPA, I found tax fascinating because of this hands-on experience. Now, I'm a lawyer working in tax, and I love it. It's tough to decide on a career without trying it out and seeing what it's like day-to-day. That's why internships and talking to people in different fields are so important. I ended up in a career I didn't expect, so keep an open mind and explore various options. Remember, your college major or even a graduate degree doesn't have to dictate your career path. You get to decide that!
Tina Austin
Auditor
2
Answers
Springfield, Missouri
Updated
Tina’s Answer
Great question! Overall I would explore all of them. Also consider looking at being an insurance premium auditor. This field has lots of growth potential in the future. Large commercial insurance company's will have many vacancy positions as older auditors retire. Best of luck!
Katie Sandonato
Human Capital Manager at PwC
5
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Katie’s Answer
Hi Alyssa, Accounting is a great major! It truly is the backbone of all business and can lead you in so many directions in the future. I agree it's hard to know which specialty to choose in the beginning! I would take some time to speak to your professors as well as attend career fairs at your schools so you can speak with professionals in the various fields. I suggest you keep an open mind, there are no wrong answers, which is the comforting part about picking such a universal career! I personally chose a firm that offered various specialties as well as many shadow and rotational opportunities. GOOD LUCK! You are on the right path!
Tooba Malik
Audit
4
Answers
Temecula, California
Updated
Tooba’s Answer
Hi! Get to know what the fields entail and go with what you think you will enjoy. I enjoy Audit so I that's what I picked. No matter what subjects you pick, trust me there will always be a place for you in the Finance world.
Sophia Y, CPA
Accounting
4
Answers
Hoboken, New Jersey
Updated
Sophia’s Answer
That's a great question! Accounting offers a lot of different paths. Many people choose their specialty after taking a few basic classes and trying out an internship. Think about what kind of work setting you might enjoy, like public accounting, industry, government, or nonprofit. You don't need to decide right now. Keep exploring and learning, and you'll find the right fit for you.
Liz Tomasiello
Professional Services
4
Answers
Baltimore, Maryland
Updated
Liz’s Answer
Hi Alyssa! I chose Accounting as a major myself when I was still just in high school after taking an intro to accounting class, which I loved. I quickly learned in college that my intro class was mostly just about bookkeeping but it taught me some good basics and I still really enjoyed the major. Even as a freshman, you can start reaching out to the different accounting firms to learn about opportunities for you at every stage of your college career (like externships, internships, etc). You an also connect with people on LinkedIn who are in those professions and see if any of them would be willing to talk to you about their experience.
I was a tax intern at a Big Four firm so started in Tax, but not necessarily bc I loved tax accounting. I loved the firm and the people I was working with and that drove my decision more than anything. Once at that firm, I realized there are opportunities to move around and try new things internally. I moved into HR a few years into my career and now work in operations.
All of this to say that your major is important, and accounting is a GREAT major for getting you in the door at many organizations after graduation. But you will also learn what you like and don't particularly enjoy and that can help you as you advance and have access to other opportunities.
You are going to do great things!!
I was a tax intern at a Big Four firm so started in Tax, but not necessarily bc I loved tax accounting. I loved the firm and the people I was working with and that drove my decision more than anything. Once at that firm, I realized there are opportunities to move around and try new things internally. I moved into HR a few years into my career and now work in operations.
All of this to say that your major is important, and accounting is a GREAT major for getting you in the door at many organizations after graduation. But you will also learn what you like and don't particularly enjoy and that can help you as you advance and have access to other opportunities.
You are going to do great things!!
Hans Miguel Esguerra
Experienced Assurance Associate at PwC Specializing in Financial Services
2
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Hans Miguel’s Answer
Hello,
Congratulations in choosing your major and attending a university! As it's still early in your college career, like many have said the exposure you have in your early accounting classes will give you a better idea of what intrigues you for the type of accounting you'd like to pursue. For me, being able to connect with different accounting professionals through job fairs and other accounting events at my school gave me an inside look into the daily lives of each type of accounting professional and was very helpful in my decision to go into auditing. I chose auditing because of my keen interest of knowing how companies operate. Best of luck! You'll do great.
Congratulations in choosing your major and attending a university! As it's still early in your college career, like many have said the exposure you have in your early accounting classes will give you a better idea of what intrigues you for the type of accounting you'd like to pursue. For me, being able to connect with different accounting professionals through job fairs and other accounting events at my school gave me an inside look into the daily lives of each type of accounting professional and was very helpful in my decision to go into auditing. I chose auditing because of my keen interest of knowing how companies operate. Best of luck! You'll do great.