Getting Started and Advancing in Major

• Earn good grades. Grades are an indicator of technical competence in accounting and of a person’s work ethic.
• Potential employers place an emphasis on interpersonal and communication skills. Demonstrate these skills by having well-rounded experiences outside of the classroom.
• Actively participate in student organizations to develop leadership skills.  Learn to work well within a team.
• Develop excellent computer skills.  Learn relevant software packages.
• Pursue gaining internships to learn about the field and gain experience.  Consider completing internships in the spring semester, in addition to, summer term, to build more connections.
• Join Beta Alpha Psi, the honorary fraternity for accounting and finance information professionals, to gain knowledge about the accounting profession.
• Develop analytical, critical-thinking/problem solving skills and understanding of professional ethical standards.
• Exhibit accuracy and attention to detail.
• Become bi-lingual to give yourself the versatility to work for an international corporation.
• Take classes outside of accounting in a related field, i.e., finance or budget analysis, to broaden your scope of knowledge.
• Stand out by targeting an area of focus during your training and make yourself an expert in that area.
• Certifications available through the Institute of Internal Auditors or the Institute of Management Accountants may increase job marketability in some areas of accounting.
• Accounting is a versatile degree. Students who graduate with a major in accounting may find jobs in many areas of business such as banking, financial planning, sales, production management, client management, product development, procurement, and general management.