8 answers
Gideon
Student
Allentown, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
692 views
What is a suitable career
What career is suitable for a 17 yo accounting student
Login to comment
8 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6179
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Gideon,
Get started early like I did in 1972 coding. When I was 15 the physics teacher in grade 11 taught me how to write code for the PDP10 computer at Queensland University in Fortran Language. The computer was huge it was a whole floor of a building and those were the days when there weren't any personal computers at all. The Internet was a US Army communications platform.
The prophetic artificial intelligence pundits say there won't be any programmers in five years. Then why are they teaching coding to preschool children in kindergarten, like are they teaching them for nothing or just the fun of it?
You could do accountancy and books for corporations small and large. Another one is an FBI cadetship or the armed forces. Why not volunteer for work experience with Bill Gates or Elon Musk. Volunteer for Career Village or NASA. Get attached to a Christian Church. Help People.
GOD BLESS,
James C.
Get started early like I did in 1972 coding. When I was 15 the physics teacher in grade 11 taught me how to write code for the PDP10 computer at Queensland University in Fortran Language. The computer was huge it was a whole floor of a building and those were the days when there weren't any personal computers at all. The Internet was a US Army communications platform.
The prophetic artificial intelligence pundits say there won't be any programmers in five years. Then why are they teaching coding to preschool children in kindergarten, like are they teaching them for nothing or just the fun of it?
You could do accountancy and books for corporations small and large. Another one is an FBI cadetship or the armed forces. Why not volunteer for work experience with Bill Gates or Elon Musk. Volunteer for Career Village or NASA. Get attached to a Christian Church. Help People.
GOD BLESS,
James C.
Adam Lin, CPA
Tax Analyst
2
Answers
San Mateo, California
Updated
Adam’s Answer
Hi Gideon,
There are multiple routes you can potentially consider for accounting:
1. Public accounting: There are various routes that will get you here but it will stem from a degree in accounting or finance. Within public accounting there are various routes you can take, however it stems down to 3 different avenues.
a. Tax: Assist with corporate or individual taxes whether it is domestic or international
b. Audit: Assist with auditing (reviewing) corporate finances and financial statements.
c. Advisory: Kind of a mix of both tax and audit, you would be assisting in providing financial advice to clients.
Of course there are many other unique avenues you could take and public accounting provides a wealth of knowledge at the start of your career.
2. Corporate accounting: Rather than going into public accounting first, you might go directly to the corporate setting working internally in a company. Career's within this field include the following:
a. Internal tax team (assist with corporate taxes and provisions)
b. Internal finance accounting team (assist with the monthly journal entry cycle)
c. Internal audit team (assist with preparing the corporation for financial audits).
d. Working at a Non-profit would entail the above with different regulations.
3. Government accounting:
a. Similar to corporate accounting but has their own government regulations.
b. You could similarly work within the IRS or state tax regulation board and audit/investigate corporations/individuals.
There are many career paths you can take in the world of accounting. I would say the most important part is to figure out what you would enjoy doing the rest of your career and to ask as many questions as possible in school. Like Orain mentions above, try evaluating your strengths and interests, look into internships or even public accounting summer leadership programs.
There are multiple routes you can potentially consider for accounting:
1. Public accounting: There are various routes that will get you here but it will stem from a degree in accounting or finance. Within public accounting there are various routes you can take, however it stems down to 3 different avenues.
a. Tax: Assist with corporate or individual taxes whether it is domestic or international
b. Audit: Assist with auditing (reviewing) corporate finances and financial statements.
c. Advisory: Kind of a mix of both tax and audit, you would be assisting in providing financial advice to clients.
Of course there are many other unique avenues you could take and public accounting provides a wealth of knowledge at the start of your career.
2. Corporate accounting: Rather than going into public accounting first, you might go directly to the corporate setting working internally in a company. Career's within this field include the following:
a. Internal tax team (assist with corporate taxes and provisions)
b. Internal finance accounting team (assist with the monthly journal entry cycle)
c. Internal audit team (assist with preparing the corporation for financial audits).
d. Working at a Non-profit would entail the above with different regulations.
3. Government accounting:
a. Similar to corporate accounting but has their own government regulations.
b. You could similarly work within the IRS or state tax regulation board and audit/investigate corporations/individuals.
There are many career paths you can take in the world of accounting. I would say the most important part is to figure out what you would enjoy doing the rest of your career and to ask as many questions as possible in school. Like Orain mentions above, try evaluating your strengths and interests, look into internships or even public accounting summer leadership programs.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
750
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Gideon, choosing a fitting career for a 17-year-old studying accounting requires a look at their interests, abilities, values, and future plans. Accounting offers a strong base for many finance and business careers, and there are many paths that could match well with the skills and knowledge gained from accounting studies.
One great career path for a young accounting student is to aim for being a certified public accountant (CPA). CPAs have the chance to work in public accounting firms, businesses, government offices, or as self-employed consultants. They play a key role in financial reporting, auditing, tax work, and consulting services, aiding organizations in managing their finances, following regulations, and making strategic choices. To become a CPA, you usually need to finish a bachelor's degree in accounting, get relevant work experience, and pass the CPA exam.
Another career choice for a 17-year-old studying accounting is to look into financial analysis or investment banking. Financial analysts examine investment options, analyze financial data, and give advice to investors, companies, or financial institutions. They can specialize in areas like corporate finance, investment management, or risk assessment, using their accounting skills to understand financial statements, evaluate market trends, and make informed investment decisions. Getting a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or a related field, along with certifications like Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), can boost prospects in this field.
Also, Gideon, a 17-year-old studying accounting might think about a career in management accounting or corporate finance. Management accountants work within organizations to analyze financial data, create budgets, predict financial performance, and aid strategic decision-making. They play an important role in cost management, performance evaluation, and internal controls, helping organizations use resources wisely and achieve their goals. Getting a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration, along with certifications like Certified Management Accountant (CMA), can prepare individuals for roles in management accounting and corporate finance.
Moreover, a 17-year-old studying accounting might consider entrepreneurship or starting their own accounting or consulting firm. Entrepreneurship offers the freedom to follow one's passion, innovate, and create value through business ventures. Accounting students can use their knowledge of financial management, taxes, and business operations to start a successful venture, whether it's a small accounting firm, consulting practice, or tech startup. Building skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving, along with gaining real-world experience through internships or apprenticeships, can prepare aspiring entrepreneurs for the challenges and opportunities of starting a business.
To sum up, Gideon, a fitting career for a 17-year-old studying accounting could be becoming a certified public accountant, aiming for a career in financial analysis or investment banking, looking into management accounting or corporate finance, or considering entrepreneurship. By using their accounting skills, getting relevant education and certifications, and gaining real-world experience, accounting students can aim for rewarding careers that match their interests, strengths, and future goals in the exciting and varied field of finance and business.
One great career path for a young accounting student is to aim for being a certified public accountant (CPA). CPAs have the chance to work in public accounting firms, businesses, government offices, or as self-employed consultants. They play a key role in financial reporting, auditing, tax work, and consulting services, aiding organizations in managing their finances, following regulations, and making strategic choices. To become a CPA, you usually need to finish a bachelor's degree in accounting, get relevant work experience, and pass the CPA exam.
Another career choice for a 17-year-old studying accounting is to look into financial analysis or investment banking. Financial analysts examine investment options, analyze financial data, and give advice to investors, companies, or financial institutions. They can specialize in areas like corporate finance, investment management, or risk assessment, using their accounting skills to understand financial statements, evaluate market trends, and make informed investment decisions. Getting a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or a related field, along with certifications like Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), can boost prospects in this field.
Also, Gideon, a 17-year-old studying accounting might think about a career in management accounting or corporate finance. Management accountants work within organizations to analyze financial data, create budgets, predict financial performance, and aid strategic decision-making. They play an important role in cost management, performance evaluation, and internal controls, helping organizations use resources wisely and achieve their goals. Getting a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration, along with certifications like Certified Management Accountant (CMA), can prepare individuals for roles in management accounting and corporate finance.
Moreover, a 17-year-old studying accounting might consider entrepreneurship or starting their own accounting or consulting firm. Entrepreneurship offers the freedom to follow one's passion, innovate, and create value through business ventures. Accounting students can use their knowledge of financial management, taxes, and business operations to start a successful venture, whether it's a small accounting firm, consulting practice, or tech startup. Building skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving, along with gaining real-world experience through internships or apprenticeships, can prepare aspiring entrepreneurs for the challenges and opportunities of starting a business.
To sum up, Gideon, a fitting career for a 17-year-old studying accounting could be becoming a certified public accountant, aiming for a career in financial analysis or investment banking, looking into management accounting or corporate finance, or considering entrepreneurship. By using their accounting skills, getting relevant education and certifications, and gaining real-world experience, accounting students can aim for rewarding careers that match their interests, strengths, and future goals in the exciting and varied field of finance and business.
Orain McLeggon
PwC Cyber, Risk and Regulatory Manager
29
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Orain’s Answer
Hi Gideon,
That's an excellent inquiry! Let's explore some potential routes you might consider:
Public Accounting: This avenue involves collaborating with accounting firms, offering services such as auditing, tax services, and consulting. It gives you the chance to interact with a diverse range of industries and clients, potentially leading to roles like Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or becoming a partner in a firm.
Corporate Accounting: Numerous companies maintain in-house accounting departments responsible for financial reporting, budgeting, and analysis. This route could guide you to positions such as financial analyst, controller, or even Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
Government Accounting: A career with government agencies or departments could see you managing public funds, ensuring regulatory compliance, and conducting audits. This path could open doors to roles like government accountant, auditor, or financial manager.
Forensic Accounting: This intriguing field merges accounting, auditing, and investigative talents to uncover and prevent financial fraud. Forensic accountants often collaborate with law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, or private firms.
Financial Planning: If you find satisfaction in aiding individuals or businesses in managing their finances, a career in financial planning could be your calling. This role involves offering advice on investments, retirement planning, tax strategies, and more.
Nonprofit Accounting: Nonprofit organizations have distinctive accounting requirements, including the management of grants, donations, and compliance with tax regulations. This path enables you to contribute to a cause you deeply care about while leveraging your accounting skills.
These are just a few instances. There's a vast array of career paths available in Accounting. It's crucial to delve into each option, evaluate your strengths and interests, and pursue internships or networking opportunities to gain hands-on experience in your field of choice.
That's an excellent inquiry! Let's explore some potential routes you might consider:
Public Accounting: This avenue involves collaborating with accounting firms, offering services such as auditing, tax services, and consulting. It gives you the chance to interact with a diverse range of industries and clients, potentially leading to roles like Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or becoming a partner in a firm.
Corporate Accounting: Numerous companies maintain in-house accounting departments responsible for financial reporting, budgeting, and analysis. This route could guide you to positions such as financial analyst, controller, or even Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
Government Accounting: A career with government agencies or departments could see you managing public funds, ensuring regulatory compliance, and conducting audits. This path could open doors to roles like government accountant, auditor, or financial manager.
Forensic Accounting: This intriguing field merges accounting, auditing, and investigative talents to uncover and prevent financial fraud. Forensic accountants often collaborate with law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, or private firms.
Financial Planning: If you find satisfaction in aiding individuals or businesses in managing their finances, a career in financial planning could be your calling. This role involves offering advice on investments, retirement planning, tax strategies, and more.
Nonprofit Accounting: Nonprofit organizations have distinctive accounting requirements, including the management of grants, donations, and compliance with tax regulations. This path enables you to contribute to a cause you deeply care about while leveraging your accounting skills.
These are just a few instances. There's a vast array of career paths available in Accounting. It's crucial to delve into each option, evaluate your strengths and interests, and pursue internships or networking opportunities to gain hands-on experience in your field of choice.
Olga Jorth
Assurance Associate
9
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Olga’s Answer
As a 17-year-old studying accounting, you've already made a significant stride towards establishing a career in the finance and accounting sector. This field offers an array of career options, and your selection will hinge on your personal interests, abilities, and long-term ambitions. Here are several career routes you might find appealing:
1. Certified Public Accountant (CPA): This is a common career choice for accounting students. CPAs deliver financial services such as auditing, tax planning, and consulting to individuals, businesses, and organizations. To become a CPA, you'll need to fulfill extra educational prerequisites and pass the CPA examination.
2. Financial Analyst: If you find pleasure in scrutinizing financial data and advising on investments, a financial analyst role could be a good match. These professionals evaluate the performance of stocks, bonds, and other investments, and offer insights to aid individuals and organizations in making informed financial choices.
3. Forensic Accountant: If unraveling financial crimes and investigating fraud intrigues you, a forensic accountant role might be an excellent fit. These professionals cooperate with law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, and legal firms to scrutinize financial records, spot inconsistencies, and provide expert court testimonies.
4. Management Accountant: These accountants operate within organizations, supplying financial information and analysis to aid decision-making. They assist with budgeting, cost analysis, and financial planning, playing a pivotal role in a company's strategic management.
5. Tax Consultant: If you possess a robust understanding of tax laws and regulations, a tax consultant role might suit you. These professionals guide individuals and businesses through intricate tax codes, help reduce tax liabilities, and ensure adherence to tax laws.
Bear in mind, these are merely a few examples of the numerous career paths open to accounting students. It's crucial to investigate your interests, acquire practical experience via internships or part-time employment, and persist in learning and honing your skills to make an informed decision about your future career.
1. Certified Public Accountant (CPA): This is a common career choice for accounting students. CPAs deliver financial services such as auditing, tax planning, and consulting to individuals, businesses, and organizations. To become a CPA, you'll need to fulfill extra educational prerequisites and pass the CPA examination.
2. Financial Analyst: If you find pleasure in scrutinizing financial data and advising on investments, a financial analyst role could be a good match. These professionals evaluate the performance of stocks, bonds, and other investments, and offer insights to aid individuals and organizations in making informed financial choices.
3. Forensic Accountant: If unraveling financial crimes and investigating fraud intrigues you, a forensic accountant role might be an excellent fit. These professionals cooperate with law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, and legal firms to scrutinize financial records, spot inconsistencies, and provide expert court testimonies.
4. Management Accountant: These accountants operate within organizations, supplying financial information and analysis to aid decision-making. They assist with budgeting, cost analysis, and financial planning, playing a pivotal role in a company's strategic management.
5. Tax Consultant: If you possess a robust understanding of tax laws and regulations, a tax consultant role might suit you. These professionals guide individuals and businesses through intricate tax codes, help reduce tax liabilities, and ensure adherence to tax laws.
Bear in mind, these are merely a few examples of the numerous career paths open to accounting students. It's crucial to investigate your interests, acquire practical experience via internships or part-time employment, and persist in learning and honing your skills to make an informed decision about your future career.
Mollee Nagle
Consultant
5
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Mollee’s Answer
If you're interested in accounting there are a variety of careers you could pursue! If you want to majorly practice accounting, you can look into opportunities at a client service firm (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, Crowe Horwath, etc.) or look into internal roles at organizations within their accounting department. If you want a smaller organization, oftentimes non-for-profits hire business managers who have a degree or experience in accounting. In addition, accounting is a great baseline to understanding business. You could explore other careers in consulting, finance, banking, etc.
Lance G
Accountant
6
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Lance’s Answer
Hi Gideon,
A few other routes include internal audit, which has an advisory role or compliance role, and forensic accounting.
I am a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and have greatly benefitted from that route. Here is more about that: https://youtu.be/Zi1L-0wC7wA?feature=shared
I intend to earn a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification to help me in forensic accounting, which is often a second profession for accounting professionals. Here is more about that https://youtu.be/UThPs0lie-I?feature=shared
I recommend first working for accounts payable or accounts receivable, to get a better understanding of the cash flow cycle and how internal controls are imperative to protecting that cash flow. Learn more about that cycle here https://youtu.be/kjfxMh2_1Z0?feature=shared
Does this help?
-Lance
A few other routes include internal audit, which has an advisory role or compliance role, and forensic accounting.
I am a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and have greatly benefitted from that route. Here is more about that: https://youtu.be/Zi1L-0wC7wA?feature=shared
I intend to earn a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification to help me in forensic accounting, which is often a second profession for accounting professionals. Here is more about that https://youtu.be/UThPs0lie-I?feature=shared
I recommend first working for accounts payable or accounts receivable, to get a better understanding of the cash flow cycle and how internal controls are imperative to protecting that cash flow. Learn more about that cycle here https://youtu.be/kjfxMh2_1Z0?feature=shared
Does this help?
-Lance
Catherine Kung
Analyst
1
Answer
Union City, New Jersey
Updated
Catherine’s Answer
Hello Gideon,
It's great that you're thinking about your future! Your choice truly hinges on what sparks your interest. If accounting is your passion, you've already received some excellent suggestions from others. However, I'd gently encourage you not to rush into a decision.
Let me share a little story with you. When I first stepped into college, I was convinced that psychology was my calling. Yet six years later, I found myself thriving in the consulting industry as a data analyst.
So, while it's important to work hard towards your dreams, remember to leave some room for exploration. University life offers a plethora of opportunities to discover new interests. So, keep an open mind and who knows, you might stumble upon something you love even more!
It's great that you're thinking about your future! Your choice truly hinges on what sparks your interest. If accounting is your passion, you've already received some excellent suggestions from others. However, I'd gently encourage you not to rush into a decision.
Let me share a little story with you. When I first stepped into college, I was convinced that psychology was my calling. Yet six years later, I found myself thriving in the consulting industry as a data analyst.
So, while it's important to work hard towards your dreams, remember to leave some room for exploration. University life offers a plethora of opportunities to discover new interests. So, keep an open mind and who knows, you might stumble upon something you love even more!