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New Career?

August 11th, 2010 at 07:33 pm

I am pondering a new career path. It comes down to money: I want to make more of it. Big Grin I also enjoy challenging myself by learning new things. I have an earlier post where I wrote about this a bit ("Missing My Job"/April 30). I feel like I could do most jobs. I learn quickly, can self task no problem and many other skills. I really love my job and co-workers, but...I think I need more.
Monkey Mama - CPA sounds intriguing, especially with the demand, and the salary would be considerably more than what I make now. What's your take on the CPA life? (If you don't mind.)

What sorts of careers do you all find interesting? Or rewarding? Do you have a job you love? What would you rather do?

4 Responses to “New Career? ”

  1. MonkeyMama Says:
    1281555311

    The CPA life? Work, work, and more work. Big Grin Honestly, my hours are unheard of. This is why I dread when my boss retires. Most anyone else I know in the field, or I have met, works much longer hours. Well more than 40 most of the time, and 60-80 during tax season.

    That said, there is a lot of part-time work. Almost everyone in my office is a part-time mother. You get paid much less and wouldn't have any benefits (like, NONE. Not even vacation, sick, or holiday pay). But, in the grand scheme of things, it probably pays pretty well. (I've never been offered really good benefits, large or small firm, but for profit sharing for a time, at my current small firm). So, more pay, but less benefits, is kind of expected.

    When I got my CPA license it was pretty intense to get the work experience, and I know few people who followed through on passing the exam and getting the experience. BUT, these days it is much easier to get the experience. I'd venture to say the exam is easier too. I don't know if it is EASIER. But, it's easier in that you don't have to sit down for a 16 hour test, do it all at once, and wait 6 months to try again if you failed. Now, by design of the exam, you only take one part at a time.

    Early in my career I REALLY enjoyed it because I was paid well for basically a lot of bookkeeping work. These days, taxes have become so complex, as well as Financial reporting, that I am not as thrilled with the responsibility, etc. For the long run I rather work part-time, or do temp work. Less responsibility! But, there are so many directions you can go in. Forensic accounting, governmental jobs. Auditing or consulting is very fast paced/interesting with lots of travel. Or, you could just do bookkeeping and keep it simple. Or do simpler taxes, etc. Definitely lots of choices.

    If nothing else, it is NEVER boring. I also feel like I REALLY help people. I of course know people in fields like nursing or social work who feel a strong need to help people. I giggle at the impression sometimes that i am just a money grubbing accountant. I get a chance to help people every day, and I find it very rewarding. People will kiss your feet if you help them with their taxes! Big Grin

  2. Amber Says:
    1281572331

    I say go for it, I love my job but am pursuing a new career also--nursing. I have a background in health care but when i was let go i went into the non profit sector, I'd still rather work in health care...good luck; in addition choose something you love

  3. MonkeyMama Says:
    1281620791

    I had to add, that you could also try some accounting/bookkeeping jobs, and see how you like them, before you get the full blown CPA designation.

  4. Jerry Says:
    1281731228

    I left my previous job (medical diagnostics rep) a few years ago to return to medical school - I have long wanted to be a doctor, and the time was right for me to do so. It leads to a lot of stress, and headaches, (and more stress, and more headaches), but I love it and I am so grateful that my wife was willing to take the adventure with me. I'd rather have the insurance of doing something I love than spend my life wishing I'd tried. Go for it!
    Jerry

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