Not Worth the Effort

The issue is not so much the exposure of young people to the profession, but rather the benefit of acquiring a CPA license versus a law or MBA degree. I have spoken with several prospective accounting students and I hear the same refrain: It’s just not worth the effort. Young people would rather spend the extra year appying it toward an MBA or a law degree. Because the benefits (pay, status) are perceived to be better, I would have to agree with them.

I think we have to push through a revised work requirement ruling. Many people in industry have a wealth of knowledge but won’t pursue the CPA due to the work requirements.

Simon Zelman Assistant Controller Giorgio Armani Corporation New York, N.Y.

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