From Bean Counter to Big Picture: Unexpected Career Paths for Accounting Majors

Think accounting majors are destined for a lifetime of tax returns and audits? Think again. Our interviews with successful professionals reveal that an accounting degree can be a springboard to diverse and exciting careers across industries. Here's how these professionals leveraged their accounting backgrounds to pursue unexpected paths:

Strategy & Entertainment

Mike, UCLA Anderson MBA now a Senior Strategy Analyst at Disney, helps guide ABC's programming decisions. "I wanted to get more in the front of that process and understand what drives businesses to do what they do," he explains, describing his transition from tax accounting to entertainment strategy. His accounting foundation helps him analyze the performance of ABC’s television programs and make strategic recommendations that shape what millions of viewers watch.

Entrepreneurship & Innovation

Brian turned his accounting background into a unique venture as CEO and Founder of Hit of Happiness, a wellness coaching company. "Happiness is an inside job," he shares, "and if this can work for me, why can't this work for other people?" His accounting skills proved invaluable to building and scaling his business.

Technology & Leadership

Coleman leveraged his accounting degree to become COO of a growing HR services company. "My career path is unique in the sense that I've only operated in early stage companies, meaning that I've had to define pretty much every role that I've ever occupied in my career," he notes. The analytical skills from his accounting background help him make strategic decisions in the fast-paced startup environment.

Consulting & Problem-Solving

Tripp, Stanford MBA, transitioned from accounting to consulting at Boston Consulting Group, where he tackles complex business challenges. "I've grown more in my time as a consultant than I have in any other role," he shares. "We're making recommendations to our clients, and sometimes we're newer to the space...so if I'm making a claim that this is something they should be doing, I need to back that up with evidence and analytics."

Why Accounting Opens Doors

What makes accounting such a versatile foundation? Our interviewees consistently highlight three key factors:

1. Analytical Thinking: Accounting training develops strong problem-solving and analytical skills that transfer to many roles. As Ryan, now CFO at Compass Diversified, notes: "The ability to communicate clearly, effectively, is very important...[when] dealing with a lot of stakeholders, a lot of people from different backgrounds."

2. Business Understanding: An accounting background provides crucial insights into how businesses operate. "That foundation of finance and accounting was crucial for a business operations role," explains Erin, a former accounting professional who later transitioned to strategy.

3. Credibility: The technical expertise gained through accounting education lends credibility in various business roles. Multiple interviewees mentioned how their accounting background helped them advance in different fields.

Making the Transition

For current accounting students considering alternative paths, our interviewees recommend:

• Exploring internships in different fields while maintaining your accounting focus

• Developing strong communication skills alongside technical expertise

• Staying open to unexpected opportunities

• Networking across industries to learn about different career possibilities

As Allison, now a SOX Specialist at Stripe, advises: "Finding out the right career path really hinges on networking, meeting with people, talking with people, and asking the right questions."

Whether you dream of entertainment, technology, consulting, or entrepreneurship, remember that accounting isn't just about numbers – it's about understanding how businesses work and making informed decisions. Your accounting degree could be the first step toward an exciting and unexpected career journey.

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Want to learn more about how your specific background could translate into a career path? Visit us at Advize for more insights from successful, relatable professionals sharing real information to help.

If you ever want to reach out for help, advice or networking, shoot us an email at hello@advizehub.com or message us on Slack!

Wishing you success,

Emily McSherry

Founder & CEO