I’m feeling really lost right now, and I could use some guidance.
I’m a junior in college pursuing a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting. I’ve been working in entry-level Accounting roles for nearly two years, but I struggle with the more advanced tasks like balance sheets, general ledger work, and journal entries. Honestly, Accounting has been incredibly challenging for me.
I spoke with my advisor today, and she mentioned that if I don’t plan on taking the CPA exam (which I don’t), it might be worth considering a switch to something like Management or IT, especially since I’m not enjoying Accounting.
My main concern is that, with my background in Accounting, I hoped to progress in that field with my degree. I know it opens many doors, but I just don’t have any passion for it. I’m worried that if I change my major after college, I might struggle to find a well-paying job—and as a single mom, that’s really important to me. I keep telling myself I’ll manage to succeed and earn closer to six figures when I graduate, and with my current job making $60k in a high cost of living area, I feel I could potentially land a role paying $80-90k with an Accounting degree and a couple of years of experience.
Switching to Management could help me graduate sooner, but I’m uncertain about the implications. Would it be difficult to find a job with a BSBA in Management? What kinds of roles could I pursue? Part of me is concerned that switching majors would mean starting from scratch in my career.
If you’ve made it this far, thank you so much for reading. 🩶
One response
It sounds like you’re in a tough but important transition period, and it’s completely normal to feel lost. Here are a few thoughts and suggestions that might help you clarify your next steps:
Assess Your Interests: Take some time to identify what you really enjoy doing, both in your current job and in general. If Accounting doesn’t resonate with you, exploring management or IT might reignite your passion and motivation. Consider taking introductory courses in these fields or networking with professionals to get a better sense of what they entail.
Job Market Outlook: While it’s true that an Accounting degree can open many doors, a BSBA in Management has its merits too. Management roles often focus on leadership, strategy, and operations, and can lead to diverse career paths in various industries. Research potential jobs that align with a management degree—roles in project management, operations management, HR, or even sales management might be worth considering.
Leverage Your Experience: Regardless of your major, your experience in Accounting and your current role is valuable. Skills like organization, attention to detail, and problem-solving are transferable and sought after in many fields. Highlighting these skills can help you during job applications and interviews even if you switch your focus.
Consider Career Progression: A switch might feel like starting over, but it’s also an opportunity to pivot to a career that aligns more closely with your interests. Many people change their career paths and find success. Networking and internships in your new field of interest can provide you with insights and connections that smooth this transition.
Support Systems: As a single mom, balancing your education and career can be challenging. Consider seeking support, whether it’s through family, friends, or campus services. Many universities offer resources for single parents that can help with childcare, academic counseling, and even financial assistance.
Consult Professionals: If possible, reach out to professionals working in management or IT. Informational interviews can provide you with real-world insights into the job market and help you gauge what roles resonate with you.
Take Your Time: It’s okay not to have everything figured out right now. Focus on what you need to do to finish your degree, and give yourself permission to explore until you find a path that feels right.
Ultimately, prioritize what will make you happiest and most fulfilled in your career. Good luck, and remember, it’s okay to take your time figuring this out! You’re doing a great job navigating a challenging situation. 💪🩷