Profile of Success: One Online Student's Story
Meet Alissa Bintner and Gain Perspective on Online Student Learning
After years of bookkeeping for her family's retail clothing business, Alissa Bintner, of Des Moines, Washington, decided to make it her career—now she's getting her Master's in Accounting Technology at the University of Phoenix. With first-hand experience in bookkeeping, Alissa knew this career path would be difficult, but well worth her while. We were intrigued by her desire to enter into the field, and inspired by her excitement for the opportunities she said it can bring. Read on to find out what she thinks it takes to make it as an accountant.
Why did you decide to get your Master's degree in Accounting?
When I started college I had no idea what I wanted to do. My family owns a clothing store, and I wanted to help. I started taking a couple of accounting classes, so I could help with the business finances and books. After I took that first class I was hooked. I really enjoyed the class and excelled at it—and from that point on I knew I wanted to complete my schooling in accounting.
What is it about accounting that draws you to this career choice?
It started out with just wanting to help my family business, but it turned into something that I actually really enjoyed doing. I've always been good with numbers too, so it made sense. I'm now on my way to getting my Certified Public Accounting license, which can lead to so many more opportunities in the field.
What are some of the most interesting aspects of the job, specifically?
I enjoy helping people out, but the most interesting part of the job is the problem solving aspect. I always get a little excited when I have solved a problem or figured out why an account does not balance.
What type of temperament and qualities does one need to have in order to be an accountant?
I think that an accountant needs to be analytical and patient. I know that when I am working on something and cannot reconcile, or I'm off on my numbers, it can get frustrating at times—having patience is definitely key.
What is your favorite class right now in school and why?
I have a few favorites, but I think at the top of the list would be Forensic Accounting. I'm a good problem-solver, and enjoyed the forensic side of solving crimes. With this class, I was able to learn how to do that with accounting. The accounting and auditing skills I learned during this class would help in investigating and analyzing financial evidence—which is something that I am also interested in pursuing.
Hopefully, Alissa's story gives you some perspective as to what kind of personality and work ethic is needed to be an accountant—and the many other opportunities accounting offers such as forensic accounting!