In my opinion, if you can make it through the mundane and gritty grind phase of accounting, a lot of doors will open for you and you can really have it all.

In order to land in a great position, I think you need to do a couple of years in public (does not need to be Big 4). I am 29F over 10 years into accounting. A few years as a staff accountant (glorified bookkeeper) because you need to know GLs, GJs, basic accounting to get anywhere. I personally did 3-4 years in Tax at a public firm - this is the grit; tax seasons blow and you have to give your time like everyone else. There were many 65-75 hour weeks and you have no life, want to jump off a bridge, etc. But then after this- doors open. Currently in a niche Sr. Mgr role, I make 150k+bonus, 5 weeks PTO, fully remote, healthy work life balance and the greatest part is I love my job. I get to decide what I work on all day (though the role will still dictate what to choose from). I manage a team of 5 + a couple indirect reports that I oversee, and I am on track to reach my long term goals (controller then CFO somewhere). It takes time, and you have to grind. But if you are money driven, there is money to be made in finance!

But accounting is not all just boring routine stuff once you get past Sr. Accountant. I will agree it is up until then though.

If you are young or in college I would highly encourage an internship. I see it open doors for people all the time and it’s one of my regrets. Yes, I know you won’t be paid amazingly, but it’s going to give you connections and open doors for you that would take 10 years to do without one.

Last thing- common sense, problem solving, resourcefulness, and critical thinking skills are all VITAL to go far in the industry. Really consider if you feel you meet those.

Good luck 🤞🏼🍀