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For professionals in accounting or finance, what is something you wish you understood earlier about balancing technical skills with real-world experience, and how did that affect your career growth?
I’m a high school senior planning to study accounting, and I’ve already gained experience through an internship where I worked on reconciliations and financial tasks. I’m trying to understand how to best prepare early, balance technical knowledge with real-world experience, and avoid common mistakes as I pursue a career in finance.
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44 answers
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tessa’s Answer
One thing I wish I understood earlier is that technical skills help you get in the door, but real-world judgment is what helps you grow. Knowing accounting rules, being accurate, and building strong Excel or financial analysis skills are important, but experience teaches you how to ask better questions, understand what the numbers mean for the business, communicate clearly, and handle imperfect information. That made a big difference in career growth, because people start trusting you with more responsibility when you can connect the work to real decisions. Since you already have internship experience with reconciliations and financial tasks, you’re off to a strong start — just keep building your technical foundation while also focusing on the “why” behind the work, and avoid the mistake of thinking you need to know everything before taking initiative or speaking up.
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Tony’s Answer
Later in my career, I learned that technical skills are only half of the solution. To effectively solve accounting problems, you also need strong communication skills. These skills help you persuade others and build agreement around your ideas, making them just as vital as your technical abilities.
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Jim’s Answer
Hi Solomon,
I wish I had known earlier that while your knowledge and technical skills, like GPA and test scores, are important, they're just one piece of the puzzle for success. I recommend getting involved in various college activities, like joining professional clubs. Try to take on leadership roles in these groups. This not only shows your motivation and leadership skills but also helps you stand out. Plus, being active in these activities will help you make connections and expand your network. This will be a great foundation for your future success.
I wish I had known earlier that while your knowledge and technical skills, like GPA and test scores, are important, they're just one piece of the puzzle for success. I recommend getting involved in various college activities, like joining professional clubs. Try to take on leadership roles in these groups. This not only shows your motivation and leadership skills but also helps you stand out. Plus, being active in these activities will help you make connections and expand your network. This will be a great foundation for your future success.
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Vivian’s Answer
I suggest you start investing and reporting on your own while you're still a student. It doesn't need to make money right away, but it will give you the investor's viewpoint and help you understand what your future clients care about and worry about.
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Francisco’s Answer
I think something important it´s to understand that Debit and Credit are origin and application, is a more useful way to see the entries and eventually the financial statements, in mi case i became a really good professional as accountant.
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Tom’s Answer
One thing I wish I understood earlier is that you don’t need to know everything technically to grow in your career. As you move into new roles, it’s normal not to be an expert in every area and you’ll often rely on your team and judgment to fill those gaps.
Learning to be comfortable with uncertainty is important, even though it can feel like imposter syndrome at times. Staying curious and continuously trying to understand new concepts will help you develop.
Over time, career growth also comes from building leadership skills, guiding others and handling ambiguity. If you only stick to what you already know, it becomes easy to stagnate, so pushing yourself outside your comfort zone is key.
Learning to be comfortable with uncertainty is important, even though it can feel like imposter syndrome at times. Staying curious and continuously trying to understand new concepts will help you develop.
Over time, career growth also comes from building leadership skills, guiding others and handling ambiguity. If you only stick to what you already know, it becomes easy to stagnate, so pushing yourself outside your comfort zone is key.
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David’s Answer
Initially, having good technical skills and a some experience (like the internship you mention and maybe more of them) is the balance you need to land your first job.
Early in your career, strong technical skills are most important to stand out from your co-workers. That is what is going to get you noticed and promoted.
Over time, the more real world experience you gain, the more you will be able to have context for how to better apply those technical skills to the business you are working in and how to navigate things like tight deadlines, incomplete data, and difficult people. It’s also good here to understand the “why” behind the things you are being asked to do. That will help accelerate your on the job education.
So work hard to build your technical skills first, then as you work longer you will maintain those skills while learning how to best apply them in the real world.
Early in your career, strong technical skills are most important to stand out from your co-workers. That is what is going to get you noticed and promoted.
Over time, the more real world experience you gain, the more you will be able to have context for how to better apply those technical skills to the business you are working in and how to navigate things like tight deadlines, incomplete data, and difficult people. It’s also good here to understand the “why” behind the things you are being asked to do. That will help accelerate your on the job education.
So work hard to build your technical skills first, then as you work longer you will maintain those skills while learning how to best apply them in the real world.
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Paula H.’s Answer
Having technical skills is fantastic, but don't forget about soft skills. Being able to network and connect with clients and colleagues is really important. Feeling at ease with small talk will be a big help as you begin your career.
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Nica’s Answer
Having technical knowledge is important, but using your real-world experience is what really makes a difference. No matter what industry you choose, being adaptable is a key skill. I've found that technical know-how helps you understand situations better, while real-world experience shows you the best ways to solve problems. Both are crucial, and it's also important to stay open-minded and aware.
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Meghna’s Answer
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that while technical skills are essential for solving problems and doing the work well, building strong relationships is just as important. Try to build rapport with your peers, juniors, and supervisors, because that’s how you continue learning, brainstorming, and discussing new ideas. Don’t be afraid to speak up, share your opinions, and ask questions. In finance and accounting, soft skills are just as important as technical knowledge, and both will help you grow early in your career.
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Ismael’s Answer
As an accountant, I have been fortunate to work in various areas, including finance. I recommend looking for an internship opportunity in the area that interests you. This will help you better understand the terms and clarify any doubts about calculations or results. Additionally, if you are still studying, you can reach out to your teachers for guidance. This way, you will have the opportunity to learn from both your supervisors and your professors
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Nicholas’s Answer
Hi Solomon,
After almost a year in public accounting, I've realized that while technical skills are important, emotional intelligence, teamwork, and attention to detail matter even more. You can have all the technical skills, but if you excel in these areas, you'll find it easier to advance in your career. Working well with others and being someone people enjoy collaborating with are key factors in how your performance is evaluated.
After almost a year in public accounting, I've realized that while technical skills are important, emotional intelligence, teamwork, and attention to detail matter even more. You can have all the technical skills, but if you excel in these areas, you'll find it easier to advance in your career. Working well with others and being someone people enjoy collaborating with are key factors in how your performance is evaluated.
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Einosuke’s Answer
Coming from a nontraditional path, I didn’t major in accounting and actually got into the field through the CPA exam. That showed me pretty quickly that technical knowledge and real world experience build in different ways. In school, some topics clicked right away, while others, especially audit, felt frustratingly judgment-based. But once I started working in audit, I realized that was the whole point. A lot of the important things, like professional judgment, understanding the business behind the numbers, and reading context, only really comes from doing the work.
If I could go back, I’d try to get exposure earlier through internships, shadowing, or even just talking to people already in the field. Coursework gives you the foundation, but experience is what makes it stick. You’re already ahead since you’ve done real work through your internship, so I’d keep building the technical basics, but also pay attention to how people solve problems and make decisions. That balance is what really helps you grow. Good luck!
If I could go back, I’d try to get exposure earlier through internships, shadowing, or even just talking to people already in the field. Coursework gives you the foundation, but experience is what makes it stick. You’re already ahead since you’ve done real work through your internship, so I’d keep building the technical basics, but also pay attention to how people solve problems and make decisions. That balance is what really helps you grow. Good luck!
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Jessie’s Answer
I wish I had known earlier that while technical skills are important, real-world experience is what really helps you use them effectively. In fields like accounting and finance, having a strong technical base is essential, but true growth comes from learning to ask better questions, understanding the impact of numbers on a business, and communicating clearly with others. This is what turns knowledge into good judgment.
For you, this means continuing to build your technical skills, but don't wait until you feel completely ready to take initiative. Engage in internships, class projects, and hands-on work to see how concepts apply in real life. The biggest mistake is thinking that just knowing the rules is enough. Those who grow the fastest are usually the ones who stay curious, ask questions, and learn from their experiences.
For you, this means continuing to build your technical skills, but don't wait until you feel completely ready to take initiative. Engage in internships, class projects, and hands-on work to see how concepts apply in real life. The biggest mistake is thinking that just knowing the rules is enough. Those who grow the fastest are usually the ones who stay curious, ask questions, and learn from their experiences.
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Kris’s Answer
One thing I wish I understood earlier is that technical skills help you get in the door, but communication, judgment, and reliability are what really help you grow. Early in your career, it’s easy to focus only on learning formulas, rules, or software, but employers also notice how well you ask questions, explain your thinking, and handle deadlines. Real-world experience teaches you things school usually can’t, like how messy data can be and how important accuracy and follow-through are. Your internship is already a great start because it gives you exposure to how accounting actually works day to day. I’d suggest continuing to build both sides: learn the technical foundation in school, but also look for internships, team projects, and chances to present or work with others. A common mistake is thinking you need to know everything right away, when in reality strong careers are built by staying curious, coachable, and consistent. If you keep doing that, you’ll be in a very strong position whether you stay in accounting or move into finance later.
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Steven’s Answer
Hey Solomon, your question is great and shows you're thinking about important things early on. Here's my top advice, something I wish I knew better when I started: always try to understand the bigger picture or the "why" behind your work. It's important to learn essential Excel and modeling skills, but where you can really shine is by seeing how tasks like building an Excel model impact other parts of your job or business. This understanding will make you better at your job because you'll see how data affects different things. Lastly, don't hesitate to speak up if you notice something others, even your boss, might not see.
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Allison’s Answer
I’m in my third year as a tax accountant at a Big 4 firm, and one of the biggest things I’ve learned since starting my career is that accounting and tax in the real world are a lot less black and white than they seem in school. In college, I really liked the structure of classes and exams because there was usually a clear right or wrong answer. But once I started working, I realized that a lot of the time, there isn’t just one correct answer. It often comes down to judgment, interpretation, and understanding the bigger picture.
That was definitely an adjustment for me, especially because I’ve always been pretty analytical and liked math in school for how straightforward it was. At first, I found it hard to get used to that gray area. But over time, I’ve become a lot more comfortable with it, and I think that’s been an important part of my growth.
It’s also reminded me that some of the most valuable lessons in this field can’t really be taught in a classroom. Real experience matters a lot, and the earlier you can start connecting what you’ve learned in school to how things actually work in practice, the better. t’s encouraging that you already have some experience at your level! I certainly didn’t at your age.
That was definitely an adjustment for me, especially because I’ve always been pretty analytical and liked math in school for how straightforward it was. At first, I found it hard to get used to that gray area. But over time, I’ve become a lot more comfortable with it, and I think that’s been an important part of my growth.
It’s also reminded me that some of the most valuable lessons in this field can’t really be taught in a classroom. Real experience matters a lot, and the earlier you can start connecting what you’ve learned in school to how things actually work in practice, the better. t’s encouraging that you already have some experience at your level! I certainly didn’t at your age.
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Ben’s Answer
You are already ahead of the game by having a finance/accounting internship in high school. My advice at your stage of life would just be to take college seriously, especially your accounting classes, in order to build a basis of accounting knowledge. As a CPA, I can attest that having a foundation of knowledge from succeeding in my college accounting classes was important in obtaining my CPA license and succeeding at my current job. I have friends who did not take their studies seriously, and found the CPA exam much harder.
Other than that, I would not be too concerned about technical skills at the moment. I would make an effort to get involved in extracurriculars wherever you go to college, as these can be very helpful in making connections that lead to jobs. Most employers are not going to try to assess your technical knowledge of accounting in an interview. If you are going for an entry level job, they expect a very basic understanding of accounting, but will certainly be teaching you about their business and your position once you get there. The more important part in the near future for you is getting your foot in the door, and you do that by a) meeting basic criteria (i.e. GPA and major), and b) being liked by the people at the companies you apply to. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there, but don't come across as sleazy or self-centered when meeting people. Being yourself and being confident (not arrogant, not timid) is the best bet. People can see through facades when you are making connections and interviewing, especially at entry-level positions.
Other than that, I would not be too concerned about technical skills at the moment. I would make an effort to get involved in extracurriculars wherever you go to college, as these can be very helpful in making connections that lead to jobs. Most employers are not going to try to assess your technical knowledge of accounting in an interview. If you are going for an entry level job, they expect a very basic understanding of accounting, but will certainly be teaching you about their business and your position once you get there. The more important part in the near future for you is getting your foot in the door, and you do that by a) meeting basic criteria (i.e. GPA and major), and b) being liked by the people at the companies you apply to. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there, but don't come across as sleazy or self-centered when meeting people. Being yourself and being confident (not arrogant, not timid) is the best bet. People can see through facades when you are making connections and interviewing, especially at entry-level positions.
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Kathryn’s Answer
One thing I wish I understood earlier is that technical skills matter, but they’re only part of the picture. In accounting and finance, you can learn a lot of the technical side on the job, but the people who grow fastest are usually the ones who combine that knowledge with strong real-world experience, good communication, and the willingness to keep learning.
If I could go back, I would tell myself to keep practicing Excel early and often, because it comes up constantly and becomes a huge efficiency advantage. I’d also start preparing for the CPA exams as soon as possible if that’s the path you want to take, especially toward the end of college, because getting ahead there can make a big difference. And I’d push myself to do more networking, even when it feels uncomfortable. That part can be hard, but showing up to events and putting yourself out there helps build both relationships and confidence over time.
My own path started through school networking and events, and I was able to get my first accounting opportunity that way. I interned the summer before senior year of college, and looking back, that experience made a big difference in helping me feel more prepared after graduation. If you’ve already had an internship in high school, you’re definitely ahead of the game. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that you grow into the role — no one expects you to know everything when you start. What matters is being willing to learn, ask questions, and keep improving.
Practice Excel (and watch YouTube videos!)
Study for the CPA Exams
Take advantage of networking opportunities
If I could go back, I would tell myself to keep practicing Excel early and often, because it comes up constantly and becomes a huge efficiency advantage. I’d also start preparing for the CPA exams as soon as possible if that’s the path you want to take, especially toward the end of college, because getting ahead there can make a big difference. And I’d push myself to do more networking, even when it feels uncomfortable. That part can be hard, but showing up to events and putting yourself out there helps build both relationships and confidence over time.
My own path started through school networking and events, and I was able to get my first accounting opportunity that way. I interned the summer before senior year of college, and looking back, that experience made a big difference in helping me feel more prepared after graduation. If you’ve already had an internship in high school, you’re definitely ahead of the game. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that you grow into the role — no one expects you to know everything when you start. What matters is being willing to learn, ask questions, and keep improving.
Kathryn recommends the following next steps:
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Michael’s Answer
Hey Solomon, I'm in an Audit Senior at a Big 4 firm. Generally, I think most of the technical skills you will learn on the job. Your classes will teach you only so much. I think the most important technical skill is probably Excel, but if you have a basic understanding of it, you'll be fine. You'll learn tons of shortcuts and tips on the job. If you are planning on pursuing your CPA, I would start on that as soon as you can! Many people think it's just a barrier to becoming an accountant, but it will teach you tons of useful knowledge that will help you succeed in being an accountant. Also a few soft skills that I think are really important:
Work Ethic: Nothing can replace a strong work ethic. If you are working hybrid or remote, it can be easy to get too comfortable with your job. Find whatever schedule works to keep you motivated. If your seniors and managers see that you're working hard, then you'll be just fine.
Problem-Solving: Such an underrated skill in accounting. At the beginning it will seem like your work is very mundane, but much of auditing and accounting work is figuring out how to critically analyze and solve problems. Hope you enjoy puzzles!
Teamwork: You won't survive on your own, even if you're the smartest person in the room! Get comfortable with asking questions and relying on your peers and seniors.
If you can do all of this, you'll kill it in public accounting! Good luck!
Work Ethic: Nothing can replace a strong work ethic. If you are working hybrid or remote, it can be easy to get too comfortable with your job. Find whatever schedule works to keep you motivated. If your seniors and managers see that you're working hard, then you'll be just fine.
Problem-Solving: Such an underrated skill in accounting. At the beginning it will seem like your work is very mundane, but much of auditing and accounting work is figuring out how to critically analyze and solve problems. Hope you enjoy puzzles!
Teamwork: You won't survive on your own, even if you're the smartest person in the room! Get comfortable with asking questions and relying on your peers and seniors.
If you can do all of this, you'll kill it in public accounting! Good luck!
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Guillermo’s Answer
Hello Solomon,
I may go against the grain here, but as a professional that worked in both public accounting and industry my best advice for work/life balance is - pick the employment role that fits your desired life style. No one area is the be all end all.
Public accounting hours are long, and depending on the area require quite a bit of travel. It tends to conflict quite a bit with say - not missing elementary school plays. That being said, you will always have a new assignment coming up and learn new skills. You will also actively learn task prioritization and time management.
On the other hand industry roles have a good bit more flexibility. However you do have to be very selective as while some industries have a varied set of work, some have the same tasks being done day in and day out - a good thing for some, but not all.
Also - just because you study accounting does not mean you have to stay an accountant. There are many roles for which accounting is a good base, like fraud examination.
Best of luck to you!
I may go against the grain here, but as a professional that worked in both public accounting and industry my best advice for work/life balance is - pick the employment role that fits your desired life style. No one area is the be all end all.
Public accounting hours are long, and depending on the area require quite a bit of travel. It tends to conflict quite a bit with say - not missing elementary school plays. That being said, you will always have a new assignment coming up and learn new skills. You will also actively learn task prioritization and time management.
On the other hand industry roles have a good bit more flexibility. However you do have to be very selective as while some industries have a varied set of work, some have the same tasks being done day in and day out - a good thing for some, but not all.
Also - just because you study accounting does not mean you have to stay an accountant. There are many roles for which accounting is a good base, like fraud examination.
Best of luck to you!
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Justin’s Answer
Solomon, let me first say that this is an excellent question (and I imagine that's why it's gained a lot of traction!)
As someone who worked in financial services for a good bit, one thing I wish I had known beforehand was that it's not just all about the technical skills but the soft skills. Many people who enter accounting and audit specifically think that they will be very heads down all the time working with numbers. But in reality, there is a LOT of human interaction and communication that goes into these roles. A lot of teaming and teamwork on these type of teams that you don't necessarily expect going in blind. So I'd say that while your technical skills are super important, don't ignore the soft skills! Invest time in learning how to communicate, learning how to manage project plans & your time, learning how to organize your tasks. These will be just as important when you enter the professional world!
As someone who worked in financial services for a good bit, one thing I wish I had known beforehand was that it's not just all about the technical skills but the soft skills. Many people who enter accounting and audit specifically think that they will be very heads down all the time working with numbers. But in reality, there is a LOT of human interaction and communication that goes into these roles. A lot of teaming and teamwork on these type of teams that you don't necessarily expect going in blind. So I'd say that while your technical skills are super important, don't ignore the soft skills! Invest time in learning how to communicate, learning how to manage project plans & your time, learning how to organize your tasks. These will be just as important when you enter the professional world!
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deep’s Answer
If I could offer my younger self one helpful tip, it would be this: technical skills open doors, but good judgment helps you succeed in your career.
As a high school senior with internship experience, you're already on the right path. To keep progressing:
Focus on strengthening your accounting basics, like financial, managerial, and tax accounting.
Develop practical skills such as Excel, basic data analysis, and presentation abilities.
During each internship, note three things: what you did, what you improved, and how it impacted the business.
Regularly ask for feedback and maintain a "lessons learned" journal.
Seek out one mentor from school and one from the industry.
As a high school senior with internship experience, you're already on the right path. To keep progressing:
Focus on strengthening your accounting basics, like financial, managerial, and tax accounting.
Develop practical skills such as Excel, basic data analysis, and presentation abilities.
During each internship, note three things: what you did, what you improved, and how it impacted the business.
Regularly ask for feedback and maintain a "lessons learned" journal.
Seek out one mentor from school and one from the industry.
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Grant’s Answer
Solomon, that's a great question. It's important to ask "why" when talking with your seniors and managers. Don't just stop at one question; ask as many as you need until you fully understand the task and the decisions behind it. Learning from your mistakes helps you grow as an accountant and a professional. This way, when you're given a task again, you'll already have some knowledge about it. I wish you success in your college and professional career!
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Chen’s Answer
Hi! Great questions to ask!
One thing I wished I have done early is to get more internship expeience when I am in college which i think you are already far ahead! Technical skills are very important but I would say you learn more by doing it with real life experience. One thing I would do more is continue to get yourself involved in the community, during internships ask questions to your collegues (seniors or managers) in your internship, and really use that resource to help you build you technical. There is no stupid questions during internship, and proactivness will be more cherished and goes long way.
Wish you the best luck.
One thing I wished I have done early is to get more internship expeience when I am in college which i think you are already far ahead! Technical skills are very important but I would say you learn more by doing it with real life experience. One thing I would do more is continue to get yourself involved in the community, during internships ask questions to your collegues (seniors or managers) in your internship, and really use that resource to help you build you technical. There is no stupid questions during internship, and proactivness will be more cherished and goes long way.
Wish you the best luck.
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Gabriela’s Answer
As an accountant, what helped me explore all the areas that finance and accounting work in was working and studying at the same time. This allowed me to apply the knowledge I gained in school to my professional practice on a daily basis. It also helped me identify which area interests me the most so I can focus on developing my skills in that field.
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Rupesh’s Answer
Solomon,
Understanding materiality is important. Technical skills can give you answers, but real-world experience adds valuable context. In my career, I spent a lot of time developing technical expertise to become part of important discussions. Real-world experience helped me understand what truly matters in finding the right technical solutions. As AI and other tools evolve, they will help people learn faster. However, having practical experience will be crucial to using these tools effectively and interpreting their results. Wishing you the best!
Understanding materiality is important. Technical skills can give you answers, but real-world experience adds valuable context. In my career, I spent a lot of time developing technical expertise to become part of important discussions. Real-world experience helped me understand what truly matters in finding the right technical solutions. As AI and other tools evolve, they will help people learn faster. However, having practical experience will be crucial to using these tools effectively and interpreting their results. Wishing you the best!
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Ethan’s Answer
As a finance professional a few years out of college, balancing the need for technical skills with real-world experience can be tough. If you're committed to a career in finance or accounting, start by mastering basic accounting skills and recognizing your strengths. These skills are valuable and will open doors to real-world experiences. Focus on building your knowledge; experience will follow.
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Johan’s Answer
As an tax associate and my personal experience, i recommend you that look for a work the first semesters of college because the experience that you are going to gain will help you to understand better the subjects you're going to take and it will help you gain confidence and avoid mistakes, and the professional relationships you're going to build can help you in the future find a better job or be part of an important project, something that boosts your career. Plus, you will graduate with an academic advantage over others who didn´t work during their time in college
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Ankur’s Answer
I have a technical background and have mostly worked in financial services. I wish I had focused more on aligning my projects with financial data early on. Here's a tip: when learning new technical skills like coding, SQL, or tools like Excel, try to focus on finance and accounting topics. This way, you'll gain both technical and financial knowledge while working on your projects.
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Ishaq’s Answer
I think you are far ahead of the game, I would encourage you to continue on your path. I would say pursue stretch assignments where you are being challenged and embrace mistakes as these will be your best learning opportunities. Ensure you have the right support system and mentors to help you with your development.
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Sheshgiri’s Answer
You're doing great, so well done! To boost your knowledge, take some top courses in the market, not just what college offers. Sign up for the CPA as soon as you can, and when you study for it, give it your all to pass on the first try. This will open up the best opportunities for you quickly.
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Michelle’s Answer
Pleaseeee listen to me when I say, study for your CPA and try to pass all four parts before starting work. I work in audit at PwC, and the days are very long. I've only passed two parts in 1.5 years at the firm, and I still need to pass the last two parts before my exam expires in a year. I really wish I had passed all or at least two parts before working full-time. If needed, delay your start date. The CPA study materials are a great foundation for the work you'll do. FAR and AUD are essential for my audit job. I regret not studying earlier because having that knowledge would have given me an advantage.
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Radhini’s Answer
In today's finance world, I suggest focusing on two main areas for career growth. First, work on building strong technical skills in accounting and finance. This can be done through formal education and certifications like CPA or CFA. These skills give you credibility and help you understand the important rules and concepts in the field.
Second, learn how businesses operate and what tools they need to work better. This includes gaining some knowledge in technology, even through basic IT or data courses, to see how systems support finance. With AI and automation on the rise, knowing how technology can improve work processes is a big advantage.
If you already have internship experience, it's important to keep mixing classroom learning with real-world practice. This helps you avoid being strong technically but lacking business sense. The sooner you develop both skills, the quicker you'll advance in your career.
Second, learn how businesses operate and what tools they need to work better. This includes gaining some knowledge in technology, even through basic IT or data courses, to see how systems support finance. With AI and automation on the rise, knowing how technology can improve work processes is a big advantage.
If you already have internship experience, it's important to keep mixing classroom learning with real-world practice. This helps you avoid being strong technically but lacking business sense. The sooner you develop both skills, the quicker you'll advance in your career.
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Christopher’s Answer
Managing personal finances and keeping up with market trends are important. Over time, costs increase, and it would have been helpful to learn how to make my money grow when I was younger.
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Curtis’s Answer
Hi! That's a great question. When I was in college studying accounting, I had a part-time bookkeeping job. This helped me learn both the theory and practice of accounting. It was great to apply what I learned in class to real-world situations. Based on what you've shared, I suggest you keep doing what you're doing. Your internship experience, combined with your college studies, will be very valuable. In class, you'll learn about transactions and how to account for them, but real-world practice, like doing reconciliations, helps connect what you learn to real-life situations. Best of luck as you start your college journey!
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Fernando’s Answer
As an Associate in the Tax area, I highly recommend starting your career in high school as an intern or trainee at a large company. You will gain a lot of valuable experience by the time you finish, and you will develop a good understanding of corporate structure. After that, it will be easier to secure a good position in the area or sector you are looking for because you will have an advantage over other recently graduated professionals.
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Christian’s Answer
Hi Solomon, this is a good question, and the good news is that you are already on a strong path by having secured internship experience within your field of interest. My best advice is to keep this momentum going. Experience builds on itself, and one opportunity leads to another, leads to another. Leverage your existing experience as an asset to continue acquiring new and relevant internship or job experiences in college. This, combined with good grades and networking with your professors and others, may lead to some meaningful career opportunities down the road.
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Pranali’s Answer
That's a fantastic question! You're already on the right track by learning about real-world applications. You're getting to know how financial systems function, how journal entries affect financial statements, and how these statements are created.
Keep connecting with others and gaining hands-on experience through internships and shadowing. This will give you a big advantage and offer a clearer view as you continue your studies.
Keep connecting with others and gaining hands-on experience through internships and shadowing. This will give you a big advantage and offer a clearer view as you continue your studies.
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Vito’s Answer
The biggest thing I wish I understood earlier is that technical skills and real-world experience aren't competing priorities but instead feed each other. You can memorize every accounting rule in the book, but until you're sitting in front of an actual client file or reconciling a real set of numbers under a deadline, those concepts don't fully click. The students who get ahead fastest are the ones who treat their internships and jobs like classrooms where they are actively asking why decisions are made, not just going through the motions. Since you already have hands-on experience as a high school senior, you're ahead of the curve.
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Abdulghani’s Answer
Solomon, one thing I wish I had learned earlier was communication skills. Technical knowledge is important, but being able to explain your work clearly, ask the right questions, and build trust with others is what really helps you grow. In accounting and finance, it is not enough to do the work well. You also need to communicate your thinking to teammates, managers, and clients. Learning that earlier would have helped me stand out faster and turn technical skills into real career growth.
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Trissha’s Answer
Technical skills will get you in the door, but real world experience is what teaches you how to actually use them.
For example, you can know financial modelling inside and out, but working on a live deal or a real client problem introduces variables, pressures, and judgment calls that no textbook prepares you for.
The best finance professionals treat technical knowledge as the foundation and experience as the thing that sharpens it.
For example, you can know financial modelling inside and out, but working on a live deal or a real client problem introduces variables, pressures, and judgment calls that no textbook prepares you for.
The best finance professionals treat technical knowledge as the foundation and experience as the thing that sharpens it.
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Elizabeth’s Answer
I'm almost finished with my first year as an Audit Associate at a big four firm, and it's amazing how much you learn while working. Learning the basics in school is important, but some lessons only come with real-life experience. Stay eager to learn in school, and look forward to learning something new every day in your career.
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Alan’s Answer
As a financial advisor, if I could go back to college, I would really focus on gaining real-world experience. While the academic world is wonderful and I enjoyed it, the hands-on jobs and internships I did made my school learning even better. Plus, you get to build important relationships that can really help you in your career or if you ever need to switch jobs. Learning from roles that are closer to the job you want and networking with others in your field outside of school gives you a great advantage.