43 answers
Molly’s Answer
Christine’s Answer
Hi! Whichever one you choose, it might be a good idea to pair your numbers-related major with a minor in Information Systems or something else related to technology. I work in HR operations at an accounting firm and technology is revolutionizing the way our accountants and consultants perform their work. Get a leg up on the competition by learning about automation and the digitization of work so you future proof your career with numbers! Best of luck!
David’s Answer
As commented by Rachel, the path may depend on what area of business interests you. I am part of an insurance company Corporate Planning department whose the leaders have been Actuaries, Accountants and Financial Analysts. So one can get ultimately get to Finance leadership roles from any of these options, as long as you can learn the business, as Nuno points out.
Note that, depending upon your particular university, Actuarial Science may be a minor in a Math degree, a stand-alone major in that School, or a stand-alone major in the Business School, or none the above ("just" a Math degree). Successful actuaries have come from all of these options.
Jacklyn’s Answer
Great question! Choosing a major is a big decision and can feel overwhelming for many students! It is so important to consider all factors when choosing as it creates the path for the rest of your years in school and shapes your professional career.
I do not believe that any of the majors you are considering are better or worse than each other on their own. But, you have to really think deeply about what you want your career to be after school!!
My advice would be to get connected with Student Professional Organizations on your campus (each major should have a few groups to get plugged into) While you're at the meetings, chat with the upperclassmen already pursuing each major and learn about their career plans. Occasionally, student professional organizations will also bring in companies that are recruiting their students. You could attend information sessions about these companies to learn more about the type of work you can do with each major that way as well.
Once you gather that information you will have a clearer picture of each major and hopefully be able to choose the one is best for you and your career goals!!
Best of luck!
Jackie Molz
PwC TID Recruiter
Austin, TX
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Allison’s Answer
Accounting PwC PwCisGo
Julie’s Answer
It depends on your career goals. I did my first degree in Mathematics and loved the coursework. After working in nonprofit financial administration I decided to go back to school and earned a BBA in Financial Accounting. Both career paths allowed me to use analytical and problem solving skills and work with data manipulation. Accounting offers a more defined career path where mathematics will require graduate coursework to advance your career.
Laurie’s Answer
Michael’s Answer
Good luck in your future!
Diane’s Answer
Rachael’s Answer
Hi Arely,
I think it depends on what you intend to do with your degree. If you want to become an actuarial, I would suggest math. If you are interested in becoming a CPA, accounting. If you enjoy financial planning, finance. I would do some research into the career path you intend on persuing and determine which majors align most closely. Those majors are certainly a trifecta of success for any career you choose (speaking as an accounting and finance major). Consider the possibility of double majoring or majoring in one and minoring in the other two.
Best of luck.
JAYAKRISHNAN’s Answer
Narina’s Answer
Steven’s Answer
Stephen’s Answer
In my opinion, if you are leaning towards either finance or accounting, you would benefit from going into accounting as that will help you gain a good understanding of the background of how the financials of a company work. From there, having an accounting background is great for a finance career as it gives you a different perspective on how everything works.
Most importantly, you should take classes in college that encompass all three of those fields. This way you can get a better perspective and understanding of how all of them work for you and which one you like best.
Emilio’s Answer
I think this question all depends on personal preference. In highschool I was really into math and originally wanted to go into engineering, but after taking various science courses I learned that engineering was the wrong path for me. I always had an interest in business and thought that either accounting or finance was a good balance between math and business. Ultimately I chose accounting because I felt that it would be easier to transition from accounting to finance rather than the other way around. I ended up sticking with accounting and really happy where it has taken me.
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