This week, you'll be introduced to accounting, the accounting process, the primary options employed to structure organizations, the primary types of businesses, the accounting equation, and the primary financial statements. In my experience, management accountants (i.e., those who work directly for an organization) can provide significant contributions (aka, value added) as business partners working as members of management teams. Public accountants also can provide significant contributions by providing external, independent support services.

As you've seen, a wide variety of career options are available for individuals who wish to pursue careers in accounting. Which career path or specialty area interests you the most? Why?