Advice for New Accountants: Four Habits That Will Set You Apart Early

In this season of graduations, the CEO of the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs shares a few pieces of practical advice to guide all those entering the accounting profession, because good habits built early on will shape the opportunities earned later.

As I was preparing to deliver a keynote at the University of Scranton Accounting Department’s Accounting Celebration, I started thinking about what I most wish every graduate knew on day one of their new and exciting careers. In this season of graduations, I want to share a few pieces of practical advice with all those entering the accounting profession because the early habits you build now will shape the opportunities you earn later.

Simple Advice That Will Take You Far

I spend a lot of time talking with firms, educators, and young professionals. They know what works and what doesn’t. So, I’ll share the top four tips that I’ve been hearing. These “secrets” to early-career success are actually fairly simple ideas, but if practiced consistently they will take you far.

• Don’t outsource judgment, cultivate it. Accounting is a profession built on trust. Nothing matters more than your ability to think critically and to honestly share your perspective. Technology will change how work gets done, but judgment, integrity, and trust will always be human responsibilities. Seek opportunities that stretch you, and learn fast. Growth happens at the edge of your comfort zone.
• Build a network before you need it. The people you surround yourself with are a strong predictor of future success. So don’t be afraid of engaging with people who are smarter than you. Throughout my career, I’ve been amazed by how many people were willing to help me grow. Say thank you, stay in touch, and pay it forward.
• Say yes more than you say no, especially early on. You own your career. Just like in life, you’ll probably have more regrets over what you didn’t do. Lean in, raise your hand, and try the hard things. Real flexibility and balance become possible after the hard work is done.
• Be fiercely coachable. Ask for feedback and then really listen and take notes. Here’s a truth I’ve learned: if someone is giving you thoughtful feedback, it’s usually because they’re invested in your growth. Silence rarely means “everything is perfect.” It very often means you’re not on their radar.

Engage Like a Professional

The accounting profession is one of constant engagement. Communication is vital, and working with others elevates everybody’s success. Accounting is very much a team sport. The sooner you invest in the accounting community, the faster you’ll grow. Here are a few easy starters:

• Stay connected with your school.
• Get involved with your state accounting society.
• Keep growing your contacts, inside and outside your firm.

I truly believe there has never been a more exciting time to enter the profession. And if you really want to take your accounting careers to the next level, becoming a CPA is the way to get there. CPAs power trust, growth, and opportunity—from Wall Street to Main Street. Whatever your interests, this profession will meet you there and take you farther than you could imagine. Right now, there are three pathways to CPA licensure in Pennsylvania thanks to PICPA’s advocacy and the work of many dedicated members of our organization. These pathways exist because we recognize that the profession is stronger when more people can enter it.

Since the effective date of the changes, June 30, 2025, about 350 people have been licensed through the new  bachelor’s degree pathway in Pennsylvania. For recent accounting graduates who want the success the CPA credential offers, my best advice is simple: sit for the CPA Exam as soon as you reach the 120 college credit mark. Whether you work in audit, tax, advisory, government, nonprofit, or something we haven’t even named yet, CPAs are the people others turn to when decisions actually matter. The world needs trust, and that’s our superpower.

This Is a Great Time to Enter the Profession

Undergraduate enrollment in accounting programs is up three years in a row, and the number of exam candidates and exam passers is at the highest rate in a decade. The pipeline is strengthening, and new accounting graduates are stepping into the profession at a moment of real momentum.

The accounting profession changed my life and my family’s life in ways I never could have imagined when I was starting out. Sooner than you think, you’ll be the person others rely on for judgment and trust. The decisions you make will shape families, organizations, and communities. I hope this profession challenges you, supports you, and opens doors you didn’t even know to look for.

Final Thoughts

This blog was inspired by the keynote I delivered at the University of Scranton when I received the John P. McLean Leadership Award in April 2026. I want to thank the University of Scranton, particularly Dr. Douglas Boyle and the accounting department for the recognition and Dr. Ashley Stampone for her years of service supporting the profession through all her outstanding work with the PICPA.

The University of Scranton community has helped shape so many outstanding CPAs. I remember what it felt like to sit at graduation, excited and uncertain at the same time. Just know that your career in accounting is wide open, and your effort and drive will bring you to heights you’ve scarcely imagined.

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