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How can I achieve my dream?

Im lynn in grade 11 . I would like to be an accountant when I grow up. I also love reading storybooks .I will appreciate if I get an advice concerning my career

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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Lynn!

How to Achieve Your Dream of Becoming an Accountant

1. Understand the Role of an Accountant

To begin your journey toward becoming an accountant, it is essential to understand what the profession entails. Accountants are responsible for preparing and examining financial records, ensuring that they are accurate and comply with laws and regulations. They also help businesses and individuals manage their finances, prepare tax returns, and provide advice on financial decisions. Familiarizing yourself with these responsibilities will help you determine if this career aligns with your interests and skills.

2. Focus on Your Education

Since you are currently in grade 11, now is the perfect time to focus on your academic performance, particularly in subjects related to mathematics, economics, and business studies. Strong analytical skills and a solid understanding of financial principles are crucial for success in accounting. Here are some steps to consider:

Take Relevant Courses: Enroll in high school courses that focus on math, accounting, business management, or economics. These subjects will provide a strong foundation for your future studies.
Maintain Good Grades: Aim for high grades in your classes to enhance your college applications. Many colleges look for students who excel academically.

3. Research Colleges and Accounting Programs

After completing high school, you will need to pursue higher education in accounting or a related field. Research colleges that offer reputable accounting programs. Consider the following factors when selecting a college:

Accreditation: Ensure that the college is accredited by a recognized body; this can affect your eligibility for certification later.
Program Reputation: Look into the program’s reputation within the industry by checking rankings and reviews from current students or alumni.
Internship Opportunities: Choose schools that offer internship programs as part of their curriculum; practical experience is invaluable.

4. Prepare for College Entrance Exams

Most colleges require standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT for admission. Preparing for these exams is critical:

Study Regularly: Create a study schedule that allows you to review all test sections thoroughly.
Take Practice Tests: Familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions you will encounter.

5. Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting

Once accepted into college, focus on completing a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. This typically takes four years and covers essential topics such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, and business law.

6. Gain Practical Experience Through Internships

While studying, seek internships or part-time jobs related to accounting. This experience not only enhances your resume but also provides practical knowledge about the field:

Network: Connect with professionals through internships; networking can lead to job opportunities after graduation.
Learn from Mentors: Seek guidance from experienced accountants who can provide insights into the profession.

7. Obtain Certification

After earning your degree, consider obtaining professional certification such as becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). The requirements vary by state but generally include passing the CPA exam and gaining relevant work experience.

8. Continue Learning and Stay Updated

The field of accounting is constantly evolving due to changes in laws and technology:

Pursue Continuing Education: Attend workshops or courses even after becoming certified to stay current with industry trends.
Join Professional Organizations: Consider joining organizations like the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) which offer resources for ongoing education.

9. Balance Your Interests

While pursuing your dream career in accounting, don’t forget about your passion for reading storybooks:

Incorporate Reading into Your Life: Set aside time each week dedicated to reading; this can help reduce stress and improve cognitive skills.
Explore Financial Literature: Consider reading books related to finance or biographies of successful accountants which may inspire you further.

By following these steps diligently while maintaining motivation and passion for both accounting and reading, you can successfully achieve your dream of becoming an accountant.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

1. American Institute of CPAs (AICPA)
This organization provides comprehensive resources regarding educational requirements for accountants including certification processes necessary for becoming a CPA.

2. National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA)
NASBA offers detailed information about licensing requirements across different states which is crucial for aspiring accountants looking at their career paths post-graduation.

3. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides data on job outlooks, salary expectations, educational requirements, and other vital statistics regarding careers in accounting which helps students make informed decisions about their future careers.

Probability that the answer is correct: 95%

God Bless!
JC.
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Luya’s Answer

Hi Lynn! I agree with Csaba's advice on getting an internship at an accounting firm because this would give you a general idea of the path you would like to go. Something I would like to add is do some research on which path in accounting sounds most interesting to you. For example, if you are interested in accounting system or IT audit instead of bookkeeping, it would be very beneficial to take IT-related courses in college.
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DEAN’s Answer

I was an accountant myself for awhile. Took classes while in high school and college level. Being good with math, logic and investigative skills will help. Then stay up to date with latest info.
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Stuti’s Answer

Beautiful Question!
Keep chasing the goal that you have for now- becoming an accountant.
And although others have provided wonderful advice to achieve that, I would love to tell you that do keep dreaming and Dream not just about. particular role but about way more things in life so that once you attain one of your dream roles/ states, you always have another to work towards and dream of!
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Chinyere’s Answer

Hello Lynn,

It's amazing that you already have a clear goal of becoming an accountant. Being in grade 11 is a perfect time to start preparing for your future. Here are some steps to help you achieve your dream and stay inspired along the way:

1. Focus on Your Studies: Since accounting involves a lot of numbers and problem-solving, it's important to focus on subjects like math, business studies, and economics. If your school offers accounting or finance-related courses, take those too.

2. Learn More About Accounting: Research what accountants do on a daily basis. Look into the different fields of accounting, like auditing, tax, or financial analysis. This will help you understand what interests you most.

3. Set Short-Term Goals:
Break your dream into smaller steps:
- Graduate high school with good grades.
- Look for scholarships or programs for accounting students.
- Enroll in a university or college with a strong accounting program.

4. Explore Internships or Volunteer Work: Try to gain experience in the field. Even volunteering for basic bookkeeping or organizing finances for a small group or charity can give you a head start.

5. Develop Soft Skills: Accountants need more than just math skills. Work on being organized, detail-oriented, and good at communication. Reading storybooks can even help you improve your comprehension and critical thinking skills, which are valuable in accounting.

6. Stay Motivated and Curious: It’s wonderful that you love reading storybooks. This hobby can help you relax and fuel your creativity. Balance is key—your love for stories and your goal of becoming an accountant can coexist.

7. Ask for Support: Talk to your teachers, family, or career counselors about your goals. They can guide you toward resources, scholarships, and opportunities.

8. Believe in Yourself: Remember, no dream is too big if you’re willing to work for it. Stay focused, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek advice when you need it.

You're already on the right path, Lynn, and with dedication and hard work, you’ll achieve your dream of becoming an accountant. Keep going—you’ve got this!

Best wishes!
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Jocelyn’s Answer

Hi Lynn!!! Thanks for your question.
First of all, it's really good that you already have identified what you love and like doing...so keep up on that direction.
Something that really inspired me when I was your age was watching some Ted Talks through YouTube with inspirational conferences from people with a career that I wanted to study (in my case was engineering, but there are Ted Talks for all careers), that encourage me to know experiences, tips and a lot of stuff from people with those skills. Also, I recommend you follow through LinkedIn app, people with the career path you want to achieve or companies that you'll love to work in, so you can start connecting with the content related to that field and use your free time on knowing the different challenges or strategies used for them and maybe study a brief course, attend to conferences, joining to free online events or reading books recommended through the app related to that career path.

Hope this advice helps you a little bit on this.
Thanks!
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Csaba’s Answer

Hi Lynn,

It's absolutely fantastic that you've already pinpointed your passion! Your journey towards becoming a top-notch accountant is indeed straightforward.

If you're aiming to be at the pinnacle of the accounting world, I'd suggest considering an internship at one of the renowned accounting firms like Deloitte, KPMG, or PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Yes, these giants have high expectations, but remember, with a dash of diligence and a sprinkle of patience, you can conquer great heights. The possibilities are virtually limitless!

I hope this advice doesn't come across as repetitive.

Thanks!
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Steward "Tony"’s Answer

"Im lynn in grade 11 . I would like to be an accountant when I grow up. I also love reading storybooks .I will appreciate if I get an advice concerning my career"

Accounting is much like a fruit tree with many limbs, so figuring out each limb's capabilities will help you figure out what fruit this tree will bear for you. Most people in this realm pursue the dream of financial freedom, so learning your profession well is key. Networking with all types of personalities is good business and seeking out those who can lead you into profitability is a daily mission.

Keep a journal of your experiences in this new career and eventually you can write story books for business teams to use as a guide within business circles (or personal circles)?

So now you have two years to start your journal and network practicing in HS, 2-4 years of college to fix and refine your skills & technology train and after that, dial for dollars with all the contacts you made in six years coming, sharing past and strengthening those relationships till they become clients.

Note: You can make a living with them and make a fortune because of them, via referrals. Never prejudge anybody who has an interest in your skills.

Steward "Tony" recommends the following next steps:

Read Book, The Millionaire Next Door.
Join business related clubs and organizations now, even as a student (resume candy)
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