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Did I become the kind of person I hoped to be, professionally and personally, after college?
I will be an undergraduate freshman this Fall 2025, pursuing accounting. I have dreams of being wealthy or comfortable with my finances, but what if I don't achieve my dreams? And that's why I have this question for my future self.
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5 answers
Updated
Dr. Terrell’s Answer
Let me be the first to tell you that nothing is achieved without hard work everything else that you will need such as planning and hiring great employees all comes into play, but at first starts with the gumption to work extremely hard and to endure a lot of things.
Thank you, Dr. Terrell for the advice.
Angel
Updated
Harry’s Answer
Hi Angel, A great concern. However, I am going to tell you to NOT worry about it for a while. There are way too many "Forks in the Road" that you will encounter that will throw you off if you try to make a concrete plan now. You might get a great paying job out of school but in a year, hate it. Or the economy takes a tank and you get laid off. Don't worry on this either. I have been laid off twice in my career and both times it was the best thing that happened to me. I came out smelling like roses in the end!
Here's is what you DON'T want to do! You don't want to turn the calendar page when you are 55 and say "Well, maybe it's time to start saving for retirement" You will be about 30 years too late.
What I will tell you is to get and read books and articles about money management and investing. One particular book is on Warren Buffet, "The Buffettology Collection." The bottom line is to invest slow and steady. Avoid the "Get Rich" ideas and enticements. They RARELY work. Warren made his gazillion dollars this way. Understand the value of Compound Growth. Buy the book "The Richest Man in Babylon." You can pick it up on eBay for about $5. The principle is to always pay yourself first- maybe a little at a time - but always. Understand the different "buckets" of investments - speculative, growth, aggressive growth, mutual funds, ETF's and secure investments (bonds) and what your comfort level is for investing.
Money management is the key. Never go too far over your head with a purchase. A bad credit score can set you back for years. You don't need to deprive yourself, just make purchases wisely. Defer some large frivolous purchase for a few months and see what happens? Probably nothing! You will still be alive and that money is still in your pocket.
Two last tips. You will probably be working for about 45 years. That seems like forever but it can go pretty fast at times. Read up and calculate how much you might need for retirement. Is it $4 million or $5 million or something else? Set some realistic savings goals and remember these are goals. If you miss them you can always catch up. Lastly, understand budgeting. You don't need a detailed spreadsheet. I have been in finances all my life and never had a detailed one. I just made sure that I (almost always), after paying myself, still had more left at the end of a month. That said, I mentioned earlier, these are guidelines and on occasion, there were, and ALWAYS will be exceptions.
You are a smart young lady Angel for asking about this. You will do just fine. Trust in yourself. Let me know if I can be of further help.
Here's is what you DON'T want to do! You don't want to turn the calendar page when you are 55 and say "Well, maybe it's time to start saving for retirement" You will be about 30 years too late.
What I will tell you is to get and read books and articles about money management and investing. One particular book is on Warren Buffet, "The Buffettology Collection." The bottom line is to invest slow and steady. Avoid the "Get Rich" ideas and enticements. They RARELY work. Warren made his gazillion dollars this way. Understand the value of Compound Growth. Buy the book "The Richest Man in Babylon." You can pick it up on eBay for about $5. The principle is to always pay yourself first- maybe a little at a time - but always. Understand the different "buckets" of investments - speculative, growth, aggressive growth, mutual funds, ETF's and secure investments (bonds) and what your comfort level is for investing.
Money management is the key. Never go too far over your head with a purchase. A bad credit score can set you back for years. You don't need to deprive yourself, just make purchases wisely. Defer some large frivolous purchase for a few months and see what happens? Probably nothing! You will still be alive and that money is still in your pocket.
Two last tips. You will probably be working for about 45 years. That seems like forever but it can go pretty fast at times. Read up and calculate how much you might need for retirement. Is it $4 million or $5 million or something else? Set some realistic savings goals and remember these are goals. If you miss them you can always catch up. Lastly, understand budgeting. You don't need a detailed spreadsheet. I have been in finances all my life and never had a detailed one. I just made sure that I (almost always), after paying myself, still had more left at the end of a month. That said, I mentioned earlier, these are guidelines and on occasion, there were, and ALWAYS will be exceptions.
You are a smart young lady Angel for asking about this. You will do just fine. Trust in yourself. Let me know if I can be of further help.
Thank you for the advice, Harry.
Angel
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Angel,
Since you’re asking as a freshman in 2025 with dreams of financial success through accounting, I can offer some grounded insights to help you reflect on this question now and in the future.
Professionally, you’re starting with a solid choice—accounting is a stable, versatile field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 4% job growth for accountants through 2032, with a median income of around $81,000 in 2024, often higher with experience or certifications like CPA. Many accountants achieve financial comfort, especially in roles like corporate finance, consulting, or entrepreneurship. Wealth is possible but often depends on strategic moves—specializing in high-demand areas (like forensic accounting or tax planning), networking, and continuous learning. If you stay curious, adaptable, and open to opportunities (like tech-driven roles in accounting), you’re likely to build a career that aligns with your goals. The “what if” of not achieving wealth is real, but accounting’s flexibility means you can pivot—maybe to financial advising or business ownership—if one path stalls.
Personally, becoming the person you hope to be is trickier to predict. It hinges on your values beyond wealth—relationships, integrity, growth. College will shape you through experiences: internships, friendships, failures. Data shows 70% of college grads feel their degree helped them grow personally (Gallup, 2023), but happiness often comes from balance, not just money. If you define “comfort” as financial security plus meaningful connections, you’re more likely to feel fulfilled, even if you don’t hit every dream.
To avoid regret, act now: seek mentors, intern early, and explore passions outside accounting to stay well-rounded. If wealth eludes you, redefine success—studies show people with strong social ties and purpose report higher life satisfaction than those chasing only money (Harvard Study of Adult Development, 80-year study).
Ask yourself this question yearly. Track your progress with a journal or goals list. If you’re driven and reflective, you’re already on the path to becoming someone you’d admire—whether or not you’re a millionaire. Want me to dig into specific accounting career paths or financial planning tips to help you start strong?
Since you’re asking as a freshman in 2025 with dreams of financial success through accounting, I can offer some grounded insights to help you reflect on this question now and in the future.
Professionally, you’re starting with a solid choice—accounting is a stable, versatile field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 4% job growth for accountants through 2032, with a median income of around $81,000 in 2024, often higher with experience or certifications like CPA. Many accountants achieve financial comfort, especially in roles like corporate finance, consulting, or entrepreneurship. Wealth is possible but often depends on strategic moves—specializing in high-demand areas (like forensic accounting or tax planning), networking, and continuous learning. If you stay curious, adaptable, and open to opportunities (like tech-driven roles in accounting), you’re likely to build a career that aligns with your goals. The “what if” of not achieving wealth is real, but accounting’s flexibility means you can pivot—maybe to financial advising or business ownership—if one path stalls.
Personally, becoming the person you hope to be is trickier to predict. It hinges on your values beyond wealth—relationships, integrity, growth. College will shape you through experiences: internships, friendships, failures. Data shows 70% of college grads feel their degree helped them grow personally (Gallup, 2023), but happiness often comes from balance, not just money. If you define “comfort” as financial security plus meaningful connections, you’re more likely to feel fulfilled, even if you don’t hit every dream.
To avoid regret, act now: seek mentors, intern early, and explore passions outside accounting to stay well-rounded. If wealth eludes you, redefine success—studies show people with strong social ties and purpose report higher life satisfaction than those chasing only money (Harvard Study of Adult Development, 80-year study).
Ask yourself this question yearly. Track your progress with a journal or goals list. If you’re driven and reflective, you’re already on the path to becoming someone you’d admire—whether or not you’re a millionaire. Want me to dig into specific accounting career paths or financial planning tips to help you start strong?
Thank you, this advice made me feel better about this upcoming school year!
Angel
Updated
Amin’s Answer
That's a great question—one that your future self will likely value. You're already showing self-awareness and planning skills that many people develop later.
Starting college in Fall 2025 with a focus on accounting and a goal of financial success is a smart move. Accounting is in demand, flexible, and can lead to opportunities in finance, business, and entrepreneurship.
But your question goes deeper. It's not just about getting rich. It's about:
Did I stick to my goals?
Did I stay true to my career and life desires?
Even if things changed, did I adapt and still find meaning?
What do you hope your future self will say? What decisions or habits will make you proud?
What might you regret not doing?
And if your dreams change, that's okay. Dreams can grow and shift. Not reaching them exactly as planned isn't failure—it's growth.
Starting college in Fall 2025 with a focus on accounting and a goal of financial success is a smart move. Accounting is in demand, flexible, and can lead to opportunities in finance, business, and entrepreneurship.
But your question goes deeper. It's not just about getting rich. It's about:
Did I stick to my goals?
Did I stay true to my career and life desires?
Even if things changed, did I adapt and still find meaning?
What do you hope your future self will say? What decisions or habits will make you proud?
What might you regret not doing?
And if your dreams change, that's okay. Dreams can grow and shift. Not reaching them exactly as planned isn't failure—it's growth.
Thank you so much, Amin!
Angel
Updated
Suzan’s Answer
Hello Angel!
Having a goal to work towards is always a great idea. It gives you focus and provides a purpose to your work. The fact that you are already thinking about your finances before you graduate college shows you are already ahead of most people. Being conscientious about your finances is an excellent way to start your working life.
First, I would define what wealthy or being comfortable means to you. Do you want to fly first class every time you fly? Do you want a big house with nice cars in the garage? I think wealthy can mean different things to different people. Only you can decide what that means. This can also refine your goals. You likely won't graduate college and get a 6-figure salary to start. During the first few years of your career, I recommend you invest in your 401k at a level that meets what your employer is willing to match (if that is available). If you have student loans, consolidate and pay them down as quickly as possible. Paying extra will help decrease the overall amount you pay back.
Building wealth takes time and you may have to forego things early in your career to achieve what you really want. It probably won't take as long as you think to get to where you want to be. Don't live beyond your means. If you really want to go to Europe for vacation, but you can only afford to go Ocean City, Maryland, then go where you can afford to go. You don't want to have any credit card debt because that is some of the highest interest you will pay.
You have a long time to work and a long time to save money. Work with a financial advisor on a strategy that suits your needs. Just being aware of your finances already puts you ahead. Best of luck on your college career and future accounting career!
Create a budget for yourself, and stick to it. Don't be tempted to live beyond your means.
Find a financial advisor you trust.
Create a definition of wealth for yourself. Keep it on a Vision Board and check in from time to time to see if that definition changes.
Network with accountants and ask how they navigate their finances. Nothing too personal, just general advice.
Do some reflection and discover what is really important to you. That might help define your definition of wealth.
Having a goal to work towards is always a great idea. It gives you focus and provides a purpose to your work. The fact that you are already thinking about your finances before you graduate college shows you are already ahead of most people. Being conscientious about your finances is an excellent way to start your working life.
First, I would define what wealthy or being comfortable means to you. Do you want to fly first class every time you fly? Do you want a big house with nice cars in the garage? I think wealthy can mean different things to different people. Only you can decide what that means. This can also refine your goals. You likely won't graduate college and get a 6-figure salary to start. During the first few years of your career, I recommend you invest in your 401k at a level that meets what your employer is willing to match (if that is available). If you have student loans, consolidate and pay them down as quickly as possible. Paying extra will help decrease the overall amount you pay back.
Building wealth takes time and you may have to forego things early in your career to achieve what you really want. It probably won't take as long as you think to get to where you want to be. Don't live beyond your means. If you really want to go to Europe for vacation, but you can only afford to go Ocean City, Maryland, then go where you can afford to go. You don't want to have any credit card debt because that is some of the highest interest you will pay.
You have a long time to work and a long time to save money. Work with a financial advisor on a strategy that suits your needs. Just being aware of your finances already puts you ahead. Best of luck on your college career and future accounting career!
Suzan recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Angel