Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Accountants
Suzanne's most significant career lesson is that "it's okay to change directions," a realization that led the biology/psychology major to a fulfilling career in accounting, proving that initial career plans need not be definitive. This flexible approach, embracing "going with the flow and doing what works," ultimately resulted in unexpected career happiness.
Career Exploration, Overcoming Challenges, Career Development, Resilience, Motivational Stories
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Suzanne Couch
Sr Internal Auditor
Compass Diversified
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of North Carolina Master of Accounting
Biology & Related Sciences
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Finance
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Suzanne's career path demonstrates that it's okay to change career directions. She initially pursued biology/psychology but transitioned to accounting, finding greater fulfillment.
2. She emphasizes the importance of adaptability and not being confined to initial career choices made early in life.
3. Her experience highlights the value of identifying personal strengths and pursuing opportunities that align with them, even if they differ from initial expectations. She mentions her left-brain strengths playing a role in finding success as an accountant.
Transcript
What is one lesson you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
The main thing I've learned is that it's okay to change directions. When I was in undergrad, I was a biology and psychology major, but that just didn't end up being a route that was going to work out for me. I graduated, and there just weren't jobs that seemed to be a good fit.
So I pursued another route that took advantage of me being a left-brained kind of person. I actually ended up being happier than I ever thought I could have been in a job. If you had told me as a high school senior that I was going to be an accountant, I would have thought you were crazy.
There was no part of me that found that remotely interesting. But you don't have to be dead-set on what you're going to do. Just because you made a decision doesn't mean that's you forever. Going with the flow and doing what works for you has been a good lesson.
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