<p>Accounting not a taxing job for Troy students</p><p>BY STEVE KOWALSKI • ECCENTRIC STAFF WRITER • MARCH 29, 2009 Troy Athens senior Alex DiBartolomeo wants to be a certified public accountant, just like his father, Richard.</p><p>If he reaches his goal, April 15 would not just signal a deadline for taxes. It may also be the day he's due — to go outside.</p><p>Working long hours during tax season leads to flexibility in the spring and summer, he said.</p><p>“When it's nice out, I like being outdoors to go golf or take a trip, have the freedom to do whatever and not worry about money,” said DiBartolomeo, who will attend Western Michigan University. “I see the lifestyle and I want that lifestyle.”</p><p>Business teacher Kay Pedersen led a group of Athens accounting students attending the High School Leaders Conference on Wednesday at Walsh College in Troy. Representatives from the Michigan Association of CPAs, which sponsored the event, spoke about the important roles CPAs play in society, especially at a time when the global economy is taking such a hit.</p><p>Once a male-dominated field, Pedersen said accounting is becoming a popular field of study for women, too.</p><p>“In my classes, it's pretty even (the gender ratio),” she said.</p><p>Chris Everlove, an Athens senior who will attend Michigan State University, said he relishes the responsibility accountants have.</p><p>“It's a good opportunity,” Everlove said. “You're the one helping save businesses.”</p><p>Anna Ricelli, another Athens senior enrolled at MSU, said she's attracted to accounting because she enjoys mathematics. She also sees a demand for accountants, as opposed to other fields she's considered.</p><p>“Especially with the economy struggling, I want a job that's sustainable,” she said.</p><p>Ricelli said it's also important to help change the stereotype of accountants.</p><p>“You're not just sitting at a desk crunching numbers,” she said. “You have to deal with people, communicate ideas.”</p><p>Another Athens senior, Samantha Miceli, has big plans for her accounting future. Miceli plans on attending Grand Valley State University, passing the CPA exam and securing a job with one of the Big Four auditors.</p><p>Miceli said Pedersen gives the students a good foundation. “She's the best,” Miceli said. [email protected] | (586) 826-7373</p>