Regarding the Catalyst article, "future CPA's: reaching today's students for tomorrow's profession".

• Author: Ladd, John
• Position: Letters - Letter to the Editor

I realize that the purpose of your article was to address the future need for public accountants. I have some advice for young people considering an accounting career in industry.

I have been in the accounting profession for almost 30 years. As far as educational background, I have both a BBA in Accounting and an MBA, both from Cleveland State. I also passed the CPA exam. I am currently director of finance for a company in California.

I encourage all accounting students to get their MBA for many reasons, but primarily to get a well rounded view of business. This will serve them well.

They should not be afraid to take risks in their careers. For example, do not be fearful of going to work for a start-up company or a company that is struggling. In both of these cases, the work can be very engaging and rewarding. I have gotten great satisfaction in helping besieged companies get turned around. Accounting professionals in start-up and struggling companies work very closely with top management, venture capitalists, board of directors and creditors.

Over my career, I have carved a niche for myself by becoming a turn-around specialist, and...