1 answer
Bryan
Student
1
Question
Updated
83 views
I want to get into the world of being an accountant. how should I go about? it What struggles or obstacles are present daily? Do you feel stuck at times and if so how do you figure your way out? Do you prefer to work public or private? Do you feel like the pay doesn't match the work you put in? When should I start looking for positions, internships, and hands-on work. ASAP or during or after college? Do you feel like your work consumes you or is your work-life separate
I am in my first semester of college majoring in business looking for advice or daily norms accounting. Should I be worried about AI taking over the job or see it as an added help to me.
Login to comment
1 answer
Shannon Zulauf
Risk & Independence
60
Answers
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Updated
Shannon’s Answer
First, if you’re in your first semester of college — you are exactly where you should be. This is the time to explore, not panic. The fact that you’re asking these questions early shows that you care about your future and want to make informed decisions — and that’s something to respect.
How do you get into accounting?
Start by focusing on your coursework and building strong fundamentals. From there, look for internships during college — ideally starting sophomore or junior year. Many firms recruit early, so it’s never too soon to attend info sessions, career fairs, and connect with professors. You don’t need everything figured out immediately — exposure is key.
Public vs. private?
I started in public accounting (audit at a Big 4 firm), and it gave me exposure to multiple industries and highly transferable skills early on. Public can be fast-paced and intense, but it accelerates learning. Private (industry) often offers more stability and focus within one organization. Neither is “better” — they simply shape your path differently.
Daily struggles or obstacles?
Workload and competing deadlines are common challenges. There are busy seasons. You may feel stretched at times. But over time, you develop skills in prioritization, communication, and setting boundaries. I’ve never felt permanently stuck — more temporarily challenged — and those moments often led to growth or clarity about what I wanted next.
Does the pay match the work?
Early in your career, it may feel like you’re working very hard for your salary. But accounting builds skills quickly, and long-term earning potential is strong. It can feel like a “front-loaded effort, back-end payoff” profession.
Work-life balance?
There are seasons. Busy season is real. But accounting doesn’t have to consume your identity. Over time, you learn to separate work and life better — planning ahead, setting boundaries, and being intentional about decompressing.
AI — threat or tool?
I see AI as a tool. Accounting isn’t just data entry — it’s judgment, analysis, communication, and understanding risk. AI may automate repetitive tasks, but that frees professionals to focus more on strategic thinking. If you stay curious and adaptable, AI becomes an asset, not a threat.
How do you get into accounting?
Start by focusing on your coursework and building strong fundamentals. From there, look for internships during college — ideally starting sophomore or junior year. Many firms recruit early, so it’s never too soon to attend info sessions, career fairs, and connect with professors. You don’t need everything figured out immediately — exposure is key.
Public vs. private?
I started in public accounting (audit at a Big 4 firm), and it gave me exposure to multiple industries and highly transferable skills early on. Public can be fast-paced and intense, but it accelerates learning. Private (industry) often offers more stability and focus within one organization. Neither is “better” — they simply shape your path differently.
Daily struggles or obstacles?
Workload and competing deadlines are common challenges. There are busy seasons. You may feel stretched at times. But over time, you develop skills in prioritization, communication, and setting boundaries. I’ve never felt permanently stuck — more temporarily challenged — and those moments often led to growth or clarity about what I wanted next.
Does the pay match the work?
Early in your career, it may feel like you’re working very hard for your salary. But accounting builds skills quickly, and long-term earning potential is strong. It can feel like a “front-loaded effort, back-end payoff” profession.
Work-life balance?
There are seasons. Busy season is real. But accounting doesn’t have to consume your identity. Over time, you learn to separate work and life better — planning ahead, setting boundaries, and being intentional about decompressing.
AI — threat or tool?
I see AI as a tool. Accounting isn’t just data entry — it’s judgment, analysis, communication, and understanding risk. AI may automate repetitive tasks, but that frees professionals to focus more on strategic thinking. If you stay curious and adaptable, AI becomes an asset, not a threat.