Until I took an introductory accounting class that was mandatory for business majors at my school, I don’t even think I knew what accounting was. Numbers? Taxes? Counting? Who knew? I remember the professor of that introductory class telling us on the first day, “Some of you are accounting majors. Some of you are wrong.” He was right, I eventually did become an accounting major, and you should too! Here’s why.
1. Who doesn’t love money?
That’s the entire backbone of the career of accounting—proper allocation and recording of money. Beyond that, accountants make really good money.
2. Accountants are essential to every business, ever.
Legally, companies must follow reporting and accounting regulations. Accountants ensure that these rules and regulations are followed. Every year, companies need to be audited. Who does that? Accountants. Companies file taxes. What type of professionals are tax pros? Yep, you guessed it, accountants. Businesses literally wouldn’t exist without the roles an accountant fills.
3. Accountants are essential to every person, ever.
Individuals file taxes, too. Accountants can also advise people with important life decisions like budgeting and income allocation.
4. It’s not as hard as it sounds.
When I first told my friends and family I wanted to be an accounting major, they all assumed I was making my life more difficult. That’s not really true. Accounting is very straightforward and deals with following rules, for the most part.
5. It isn’t all number-crunching.
In fact, it’s very little number-crunching. My professors always tell their students that if they can count, they can be an accountant. And it’s true! Accounting isn’t manipulating numbers; it’s plugging numbers in where they need to go. More like a puzzle.
6. It’ll be useful for any type of business future.
Like I said, accountants are essential to every business and every person. Because of that, an accounting background will be useful for any type of future role in the business world.
7. You won’t need to hire an accountant in the future.
You’ll definitely understand your taxes better than the average citizen and will know exactly how to maximize your return without hired help.
8. You’ll understand the economic side of the presidential debates a little bit better.
Yes, accounting and economics are very different fields of study. But, a lot of accounting deals with current federal regulations on reporting, budgeting and accounting. Understanding those underlying rules helps aid a general understanding of the monetary system in our country.
9. You’ll be fluent in computer programs like Excel and Access.
The use of Excel and Access for accounting goes far beyond making simple spreadsheets.
10. There are super interesting accounting professions.
Ever heard of forensic accounting? Probably not. Forensic accountants work with police departments to uncover fraudulent activity or misuse of resources (mostly money). Also, accountants have a role in every industry. Interested in the fashion industry? All the top brands have team of accountants. Or, you can work for a professional sports team.
