An affinity or enjoyment of math as a teenager might influence a future partnership between high school students and accounting programs in college. It’s never too early to start preparing for college, even if a student isn’t exactly sure where he or she might end up after graduation. For students who want to get into the lucrative business of accounting, there are many steps that may be taken while in high school to improve the college experience.
Prepare with the Right Classes
Undergraduate college programs tend to require several “core” classes that everyone at the school must take, but there are also classes that need to be taken in a student’s specific area of study. Taking the right classes in high school will make these important accounting classes easier in college.
Not surprisingly, loading up on math classes is a good way to prepare for a college degree program in accounting. Some high schools provide accounting classes, but not every school features this type of advanced math.
Choosing College Prep Classes
Many schools provide advanced classes meant as preparation for the college experience or offer classes that might transfer as college credit. These classes aren’t for timid students; however, getting a jump on a college education is valuable because it demonstrates a student’s commitment to higher education.
Note that entry into college prep courses often requires special application or approval from a teacher. Enrollment in advanced coursework is only advisable for students who feel up to the task of college-level work and who can maintain a high GPA in those classes.
Volunteer Smartly and Participate in Groups
Some students try to participate in as many volunteer opportunities as possible so as to fill a resume or application with tons of experience, but it might not be necessary. Schools may look more favorably on a student who has searched for accounting-related activities. For example, joining the math club at school would be a terrific addition to a college application. Looking at student groups that are part of national accounting associations also looks great on an application.
Additionally, volunteering at a local accounting firm as an intern might also show initiative in preparing for an education in accounting. Shadowing a working Certified Public Accountant (CPA) during tax time is an activity that would look great on an application and would also provide valuable knowledge for a future job as an accountant.
Ask Colleges for Recommendations on Classes
Each university is different when it comes to their application requirements. It may be useful to contact different schools to ask what high school courses would look best on a transcript during the application process. Some of the top accounting schools might want to see a student who’s taken at least four years of math.
Other schools might look favorably on a broad high school curriculum that touches may different subjects such as math, science, language, and comprehension. For example, consider that classes in communication might be beneficial as they would help a future accountant communicate with his or her clients.
Locate Scholarships and Aid for Accounting
It’s essential to start investigating scholarship opportunities early in a high school career. Many scholarships have requirements that could take a few years, such as volunteer work. Early investigation of scholarships should give a student enough time to cover the basic scholarship requirements.
Accountants and auditors are always in demand and also take home high salaries. High school students and accounting degrees are a perfect pairing for students who love small details and mathematics, and preparing early to enter an accounting program may make it easier to get into college.
