Considering a Career Change from Communications to Accounting
I’m a 21-year-old who graduated with a degree in Communications, accompanied by a minor in Journalism, in May 2024. When I started my journey, I believed I wanted to pursue a career in journalism. However, after completing an internship at a local paper, I quickly realized that it wasn’t the right fit for me. By that point, I was already well into my studies and felt it was too late to make a switch.
After graduation, I considered various paths—teaching, civil engineering, and even pursuing an MBA. While each option intrigued me, I ultimately decided against them for different reasons and opted to explore my degree instead to prevent it from going to waste.
After applying to numerous positions related to my field, I landed a job as a Marketing Director with a starting salary of $50,000. While that’s a decent salary, especially in my low-cost area, I find myself feeling unfulfilled. I enjoy certain aspects of my role, but I can’t envision a long-term future in it. I’ve reached out to over 50 other opportunities in marketing, communications, PR, advertising, and project management, yet most responses have come from questionable companies.
Now, I’m wondering if anyone who has transitioned from a creative field, like Marketing, would recommend making a move to Accounting. My husband holds a degree in Accounting and works for a Big Four firm, and he truly enjoys it. However, I don’t have much interaction with others in the Accounting field due to my current career focus.
I’ve done some research into accounting, and it genuinely seems intriguing. While I consider myself a creative individual, I’m realizing that I prefer to channel that creativity into hobbies outside of work.
For now, I’ll continue in my current job and keep applying for positions within my field. However, if things don’t change in the next few months, I’m seriously contemplating a career switch.
One response
It sounds like you’re really reflecting on your career goals and what will make you happy in the long run, which is great! Transitioning from a creative field like marketing to a more analytical one like Accounting can be a big shift, but it’s definitely possible and can be rewarding if it aligns with your interests and strengths.
Here are a few things to consider:
Personal Interests and Strengths: Since you find Accounting interesting, take some time to explore what aspects of the field resonate with you. Accounting requires strong analytical skills and attention to detail. If you enjoy working with numbers, problem-solving, and organizing information, these could be good indicators that accounting might suit you.
Growth Opportunities: The accounting field often offers stable job prospects and a clear career path, especially with the demand for skilled professionals. Your husband’s experience at a Big Four firm could provide valuable insights into the industry, and it’s worth having conversations with him and other accountants to learn more about their day-to-day work and career satisfaction.
Further Education: If you decide to pursue accounting, you may need to take additional coursework or pursue certification (like the CPA) depending on your goals. Consider exploring accounting programs that could accommodate your schedule while you continue to work.
Creative Outlet: Keep in mind your desire to channel your creativity outside of work. Many accountants find ways to express their creativity, whether through financial modeling, strategic planning, or even through activities outside of work. It’s all about finding the right balance.
Patience and Persistence: It’s great that you’re applying to jobs in your current field while exploring other options. Job searching can often be challenging and take time. Keep networking and seeking out connections in fields you’re interested in.
Ultimately, trust your instincts and consider what will make you feel fulfilled in the long run. Whether you stay in communications, pivot to accounting, or explore another path altogether, it’s about finding the right fit for your skills and passions. Good luck!