ASHLEY CAMPBELL
Accounting / Statistics
Job: Financial Institution Bond & Specialty Underwriter for Travelers Insurance
Age: 29 | Hometown: Malvern
Degrees: Bachelor of Business Administration–Accounting Emphasis and a Master of Business Administration
Alma mater: Henderson State University
Why did you choose accounting?
I have always been interested in numbers. Not in the sense of algebra or geometry, but in the ins and outs of the numbers of a business: how different businesses make money, their profitability, return on investments, and so on. I took advice from my college adviser who advised that accounting has one of the highest job placements after graduation, and I would also be learning those ins and outs of a business’ financial statements.
What would surprise students about your field?
When most people think of accounting, they think of taxes. There is so much more you can do with this degree. Your possibilities are endless!
What is your job like?
My current role is a cross between analysis and sales. I assess a bank or credit union’s financial statements in order to develop a premium associated for their bond and specialty insurance. I often meet with the bank or credit union, along with the insurance agent to discuss the insurance policy offerings and how Travelers can bring value to the institution. My favorite thing about my job is that I’m not behind a desk every day. I am out developing relationships with agents and insureds, while still utilizing my analytical background in accounting.
What advice would you give to someone considering accounting?
Accounting is a field in which your career possibilities are endless. My best advice is to do as much job shadowing you possibly can. Ask questions and learn as much as possible about different aspects of jobs and career paths.
WHY IT'S HOT
Employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 11 percent by 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. In general, employment growth of accountants and auditors is expected to be closely tied to the health of the overall economy. As the economy grows, more workers should be needed to prepare and examine financial records.
THE MAJOR
Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Certification within a specific field improves job prospects. For example, many accountants become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs).
THE PAYCHECK
The median annual wage for accountants and auditors was $68,150 in May 2016.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
