From History Major to CPA: Why Liberal Arts Majors Belong in Accounting

I’ll let you in on a secret: I’ve spent my entire career at an accounting firm, but when I started, I’d never taken an accounting class. 

I majored in history—spending college immersed in ancient civilizations, revolutions and world-changing events, not financial statements or tax codes. But when I was a senior, I saw that Coopers & Lybrand (now PwC) was recruiting liberal arts students. I thought, Why not? I didn’t know it then, but that mindset would define my career. 

The power of a liberal arts mindset 

The very skills that drew me to history—critical thinking, storytelling and seeing the bigger picture—became my greatest assets as an accountant and leader. Studying history taught me to analyze complex information, connect dots across different contexts and communicate insights in a way that drives action. 

Those same skills help me every day—whether it’s guiding clients through uncertainty, shaping strategy or breaking down financial data into a clear, compelling story. 

Thinking big and and questioning assumptions

Let’s be honest: most people don’t associate liberal arts majors with accounting or tax careers. And that’s exactly the problem. 

This profession needs big thinkers—people who challenge assumptions, adapt quickly and connect ideas across disciplines. It also requires an understanding that behind every number is a human story. Whether it’s earning a client’s trust, mentoring a team member or advising on complex issues, relationships drive real impact. 

Finding the story in the data 

As a history major, I loved analyzing events, diving into primary sources and making sense of the past. I learned to ask tough questions and to never settle for the easy answer. 

That skillset—synthesizing complex information and distilling it into clear insights—is just as valuable in accounting. Whether it’s explaining financial results, navigating regulations, or helping businesses set long-term strategies, success in this profession isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about telling a compelling, accurate story based on evidence. 

Opening doors for the next generation 

At PwC, we know great accountants don’t come from just one path. I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible colleagues from liberal arts backgrounds, and their perspectives make our teams stronger. 

That’s why we’re hosting an upcoming virtual panel discussion for liberal arts students who are curious about careers in accounting and tax. Our panelists—former liberal arts students themselves—prove that this profession is for anyone who loves to think critically, solve problems and make an impact. 

If you think accounting isn’t for you … think again. 

In my 31 years at PwC, I’ve found that being an accountant is a lot like being a liberal arts student—you’re always learning, exposed to new industries and perspectives, and solving problems that matter. 

So if you’re a liberal arts student—or someone without a traditional accounting background—who assumes this profession isn’t for you, think again. We need your curiosity, creativity and values in this field. You might just find, like I did, that accounting is a great fit for your skills—and that you can make a meaningful difference along the way.