COMPETENCES OF BECOMING AN ACCOUNTANT

What is accounting? Known as the “language of business,” accounting is the system of analyzing and verifying summarized business/financial transactions and reporting their results. Accounting is more than just adding numbers and being good at math. Accountants have to “ensure that financial records are accurate and that taxes are paid properly on time.” (Bureau of Labor Statistics [BLS], 2012, para. 1). There are several different types of accounting. These types include, auditors, forensic, public, tax professional, financial advisor, and consultants. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to become an accountant. You have to go through years of school to earn your degree, already have previous work experience in the area in which you want to work in, and be able to pass a series of exams in order to get your license. Let’s read more about it. “Early in your career, preferably while still in college, you will want to get an idea of what kind of accounting field you wish to enter.” (Carey, 2005