eh FWIW I'm you're #3 but looking to get into flying as a career change, so any advice I can give is in relation to acctg.
Firstly, you need an accounting degree - 3 years F/T. Then you choose either CA or commercial, however CA firms are probably just like airlines in applying the 'non-existent age factor' (I'm probably shooting myself in the foot here), however their argument is more culture based given the avg age of grads is 22.
Then you need to decide on CA or CPA. CA (which I am) is more highly recognised/respected from employers, esp ex chartered employers than CPA but like anything you EARN your CA as its very technical and takes about 2-3 years but is well worth it.
The real money is in commerce and the career path is something like:
Degree - Grad Accountant - CA/CPA - Financial Accountant - Fin Mgr - Fin Controller - Group FC (me
) - CFO
overall, accounting isn't easy but its not rocket science either. You get better with practice. Some people have the 'knack' for accounting and love it whereas some people (eg me) are extremely good at it but hate it because its pretty borting. Application is the most important part about it and ability to do so is what differentiates you from your peers. Also, be prepared for long hours at work esp around July and Aug each year.
Pro's:
- you'll ALWAYS have a job and you could get to $100k within about 5-8 years or so out of uni depending on how good you are;
- your CA/CPA is recognised world-wide;
- you can set up a business quite easily with minimal costs.
Cons:
- pretty boring;
- long hours and it can become quite stressful (working weekends, etc)
- $900 annual membership fees if I remember clearly, but you can get the company to pay for that
Good luck
