By Andrew Preston, Staff Accountant

Finding a career path that aligns with your passions and goals is no small feat, especially in a fast-evolving world. For Andrew, the journey to accounting began as an internship and grew into a fulfilling full-time role. In this blog, Andrew shares why he chose accounting, what keeps him excited about the profession, and what Gen Z can bring to the field. His story offers insight into the values and aspirations of his generation and might just inspire others to see accounting in a whole new light.

As a Gen Z employee, I am part of a generation that is often characterized by its interest in technology, flexibility, and the search for meaningful work. On the surface, accounting might seem like an odd choice for someone from my generation. It’s often seen as a field that is rigid, traditional, and maybe even a little “old school” in a world that is increasingly driven by innovation and digital disruption. Yet, despite these perceptions, I found myself drawn to accounting, and I believe that my decision is not only personal but also reflects some of the evolving trends and values of my generation.

One of the primary reasons I chose accounting was the stability it offers. Unlike some other professions that are currently being disrupted or outsourced, accounting remains a critical part of business operations. In fact, accountants are in demand more than ever. As businesses expand globally,as financial regulations become more complex, and as new technologies like artificial intelligence begin to reshape the landscape, the need for skilled accountants to ensure compliance, and provide strategic advice, only grows. I’ve seen the volatile job market, especially in industries like entertainment, media, or even technology. With many young people entering fields that promise excitement but carry a high degree of uncertainty, I found the security that comes with a well-established profession like accounting appealing. Stability isn’t boring—it’s something I view as crucial to my long-term success.

Contrary to the stereotype that accounting is a slow, paper-heavy profession, accounting today is incredibly tech-driven. Gen Z, more than any other generation, has grown up with technology and digital tools, so it feels natural to me to use the latest innovations to solve problems and drive efficiencies. Accounting has transformed with advancements in software like QuickBooks, Excel, CCH Axcess, as well as the rise of cloud accounting and automated systems that make many traditional tasks more efficient.

One of the most appealing aspects of accounting is its versatility. Accounting is not confined to a single role or industry. Whether it’s public accounting, corporate accounting, forensic accounting, or tax advisory, the skills of an accountant are transferable to almost every sector. 

For someone like me, who values flexibility and wants to keep my options open, accounting offers the chance to explore different paths. It is a profession that allows me to pivot and grow in multiple directions.

Additionally, accounting is not just about crunching numbers—it’s about problem-solving and providing insights that drive business decisions. This advisory aspect of accounting is what makes the profession more dynamic and interesting. Accountants can help businesses grow, navigate financial challenges, and create strategies to improve their financial performance. 

As a Gen Z individual, who is highly driven by purpose and making an impact, this advisory aspect appealed to me because it allows accountants to mix technical expertise with strategic thinking. 

Another factor that influenced my choice of accounting is the value of integrity that is deeply embedded in the profession. In a world where issues like corporate fraud, financial scandals, and lack of transparency are ever-present in the media, accounting provides an opportunity to be part of the solution. 

Accountants are trusted with ensuring that financial statements are accurate and that organizations comply with ethical and legal standards. As someone who values transparency and ethics,I saw accounting as a way to contribute to the integrity of business practices. Ensuring that companies are financially accountable to their stakeholders—whether they be investors, customers, or employees—felt like a meaningful way to make a difference. 

By choosing accounting, I am not just choosing a career, but also aligning myself with a profession that champions honesty and trustworthiness in a world that often seems to lack both. It’s true that fewer people are entering accounting each year, which makes it a less obvious choice for someone in my generation. However, I see this as an opportunity rather than a drawback. 

The fact that fewer people are pursuing accounting means that there is less competition, and the profession is in need of fresh perspectives. For me, this is a chance to challenge outdated stereotypes about what accounting is and can be. It’s not just about tax returns and balance sheets—accounting today is an exciting, evolving field that intersects with data analysis, business strategy, and ethics. I want to be part of a new wave of accountants who push the boundaries of what the profession can do.

As a Gen Z individual, I’m used to the idea of breaking norms and defying expectations. I’ve seen my peers go into unconventional fields, but I also recognize that it takes courage and conviction to choose a path that others might overlook. By choosing accounting, I hope to inspire other young people to reconsider careers in professions that might seem too traditional, but which are ripe for innovation and personal growth. Choosing accounting as a Gen Z employee may seem like an unexpected choice,but for me, it was a decision rooted in practicality, interest, and long-term potential. 

The combination of job stability, the potential for tech innovation, the versatility of career paths, and the opportunity to contribute to ethical business practices made accounting stand out as the ideal choice.

Andrew Preston is a staff accountant at LSWG. Starting as an intern in June 2022 while pursuing his undergraduate degree at Mount St. Mary’s University, Andrew balanced academics and professional growth. He graduated in 2023 with a Bachelor’s in Accounting and went on to pursue his Master’s in Accounting at Loyola University while continuing to work part-time. Now a full-time team member, Andrew brings dedication, creativity, and a fresh perspective to the world of accounting.