[vanwyk4257]

I work as a commercial lender for a major midwest bank, and my job gives me opportunity to interact with many accountants, bookkeepers and CPA's. If you want my .02 worth, I would recommend considering the CPA route. Yes, you will have to work your tail off from December to April, and perhaps the rest of the year depending on the type of firm you work for, but you will make much more money with the CPA credentials than you will without. The way I look at it is do I want to work my butt off while I'm young so I can retire while I'm still young enough to travel, be active and really enjoy myself? Heck yes!!! To me it's worth having a stressful career to know that when I retire I will be able to do so comfortably. You need to decide what's more important to you personally, having a 9-5 job that is fairly stress free, or having a career that gives you more opportunity. To paraphrase what I think Souk was saying, you get out what you put in. I'm one of the youngest guys doing what I do, but I'm also one of the best because I work harder and smarter. The bottom line is, whatever you do, put 110% into it and you'll do well. Good luck to you!