High School Web page banner

Home  >  Look Beyond  >  Students  >  High School
  


It's never too early to start thinking big about your future! What if we told you that the experiences you're having right now could lead to an exciting and successful career? Whether you're into sports, entertainment, business—or all of the above— becoming a CPA can help get you there.

CPAs are the behind-the-scenes problem-solvers who make big decisions and help businesses grow. Plus, beieng a CPA offers flexibility, leadership opportunities and the chance to work anywhere in the world!


  

 

Why Choose a CPA Career?

Choosing to be a CPA isn't just a smart move—it's a game-changer. Here's why:

 

Earn more icon

Earn More

CPAs can make up to 15% more than other careers, with potential earnings in the six to seven figures!

 

High demand icon

High Demand

CPAs are needed in every industry and the demand is only growing.

 

Job security

Job Security

CPAs are essential to every economy, offering job stability—even during tough economic times.

 

Work Flexibility icon

Work Flexibility

Many accounting firms offer remote work and encourage a healthy work-life balance.

 

Fast Career Growth icon

Fast Career Growth

Promotions come regularly as you gain experience, giving you control over your career trajectory.

 

Why choose a CPA career, image
  
 
  


 

 

Find Your Path with Purpose

Do you enjoy storytelling, building connections or finding creative solutions? If so, you're already on the path to becoming a CPA! Using data to reveal the story behind a business's success, challenges and opportunities is a key attribute of a CPA. They combine technical expertise with interpersonal skills to make an impact.

 

Essential Skills CPAs Use:

 

Communication

Effective Communication

Problem solving

Strategic Problem-Solving

Leadership

Influential Leadership

Critical thinking

Critical Thinking

Project management

Project Management

Collaboration

Team Collaboration

  
Traits of Successful CPAs:

 

Tech-savvy

Tech-Savvy

Ethical

Ethical

Organized

Organized

Strategic

Strategic Thinker

Curious

Curious

Adaptable

Adaptable

  

Being a CPA is more than numbers—it's about helping businesses grow, making informed decisions and connecting with people to drive meaningful change.

 
  

 

How to Start Your CPA Journey

Here's how you can begin preparing for a CPA career while still in high school:

 

Step 1

 

Choose the Right Classes

Take classes that will set a strong foundation, like public speaking, introduction to business or entrepreneurship, economics, psychology or sociology, financial literacy and algebra.

Step 2

 

Get Involved

Run for class treasurer, join DECA or Future Business Leaders of America or attend Business Professionals of America (BPA) State Leadership Conference to gain hands-on experience.

   
   
Step 3

 

Start Early

Build your skills by volunteering, joining a summer program, working part-time or even starting a small business. It’s a great way to develop an entrepreneurial mindset.

Step 4

 

Talk to a Counselor

Your school counselor can help you explore exciting paths in accounting and finance that match your interests and goals.

   
   
Step 5

 

Interview or Shadow an Accounting Professional

Connect with an expert to learn about their career journey and gain behind-the-scenes perspective on the field.

CPA Journey

 

Each step brings you closer to a future where you can lead, innovate and make an impact as a CPA!

    
     

 

Discover What's Possible with OSCPA

The Ohio Society of CPAs offers amazing opportunities for high school students to explore the world of accounting:

 

Discover Image 1

 

CPA Camp

This free, immersive camp explores what being a CPA is all about. Discover how accounting can lead to a stable, high-paying career and even earn scholarships along the way!

Discover Image 2

 

Accounting Career Days

Spend a day on a college campus, meet real CPAs and see how accounting can open doors to industries you're passionate about. Learn the steps to becoming a CPA, explore different career paths and experience life on campus.

Discover Button 1
Discover Button 2
    

 

   

 

Discover Your CPA Superpowers

Curious if a CPA career is right for you? Explore these resources designed for students like you:

 

Discover Tile 1
Discover Tile 2
Discover Tile 3
  
  
  
  
Your journey starts here


Start Your Journey Here

 


Ready to take the first step toward a bright future? Join The Ohio Society of CPAs as a student member—it's completely FREE! As a member, you'll get access to scholarships, resources and mentors to help you succeed.

Join OSCPA Today
 
   
  

 

Real Success Stories

Learn how young CPAs discovered their passion for accounting and turned it into a successful and exciting career.

 

1 Real Success
2 Real Success
3 Real Success
  
  

 

FAQs


Got questions about becoming a CPA? We’ve got the answers. Check out our most frequently asked questions and get all the info you need to kickstart your CPA journey.

 

Additional Resources

 

This way to CPA
Additional Resources 2
Additional Resources 3
Future Accountants
OSCPA Forensic Accounting Challenge