Today’s Accounting Club meeting gave us a insights into the life of accounting and why it’s one of the most practical and secure careers out there. We heard from three experienced professionals—Jason Garfield, Alex Hamabuchi, and George Rubino—who each took very different paths but all ended up in successful accounting careers.
Jason Garfield works in both auditing and consulting for small to medium-sized businesses. He explained how even a short report can bring in serious money and how joining an accounting group like Beta Alpha Psi helped him land his first internship. He stressed that connections and being active in accounting organizations can lead to real opportunities.
Alex Hamabuchi came from an engineering background but made the switch to accounting. He now audits engineering firms, including a nuclear company. His main message was that even a basic understanding of accounting can open doors in almost any field, including science and tech. He called accounting a great fallback because it’s always in demand.
George Rubino focused on the big picture. He pointed out that accounting creates long-term value. Once you earn your CPA and degree, jobs will start reaching out to you. George studied accounting at St. John’s because he liked math and business in high school, and he ended up in tax. He reminded us that accounting knowledge stays useful across your whole career. The smallest amount of experience can break anyone into accounting.
We also discussed how AI is constantly changing things, but not in a way that replaces accountants. Most companies are still figuring out how to use AI, and it’s helping with efficiency, not taking away jobs. Medium-sized companies are even merging and growing because of these changes. Having accounting knowledge makes you more valuable, not less.
A big part of the talk was the difference between an accountant and a CPA. Accountants don’t need a CPA license and can work in many areas, but CPAs have legal authority, especially when dealing with the IRS or court. CPAs also tend to earn more money and are in high demand. To become a CPA, you usually need 150 total college credits, which is 30 more than a bachelor’s degree.
Accounting careers can be found in nonprofits, government, sports, entertainment, consulting firms, and more. It’s a behind-the-scenes role that keeps businesses running and helps leaders make smart financial choices. Tax and audit roles offer more job security, especially during recessions, while consulting jobs can be more risky and tied to the economy.
One last important point, passing the CPA exam is just the beginning. The field is always changing with new technology and rules, so lifelong learning is a must.
Key Takeaways:
- Join accounting clubs and networks like Beta Alpha Psi early.
- CPA opens more doors and leads to higher pay and legal authority.
- Accounting knowledge is useful in every industry.
- AI is a tool.
- Job security is strongest in tax and audit.
- Always keep learning even after passing the CPA.
This meeting was a great reminder that accounting is more than just numbers, it’s about building skills that last, staying adaptable, and understanding how the world of business really works.
