Accountants need an aptitude for numbers so they can interpret facts and figures. They must be detailed, organized, and knowledgeable about tax laws that change each year. Because individuals and large corporations reveal private financial information to them, accountants need a high level of integrity and confidentiality. They also need excellent computer skills.

People considered me the math whiz when I was in high school. My parents even asked me to help prepare their federal income tax forms. After graduating from high school, I enrolled in a 4-year college and earned my bachelor’s degree in accounting. I also passed a national examination to become a certified public accountant (CPA).