GEN NEXT: Ivory Pineda, CPA

Growing up in the Philippines, my parents owned an upholstery shop and a sari-sari store, and my sister and I would help out when we could. I remember peeling countless garlic cloves, preparing vegetables for pancit, and buying and crushing ice for the fruit shakes we sold to thirsty high schoolers. Back then, we had a rolling store, which we would park wherever there were a lot of people, especially during fiestas. I remember feeling ashamed when my schoolmates saw me working. Of course, looking back, I now feel immense pride in those experiences and challenges. They honed my work ethic, taught me the value of business, and shaped me into the certified public accountant (CPA) I am today.

During my last year of high school, I took an accounting class that opened my mind to a whole new world of possibilities of what my life could be someday—not just for me but also for my family. Although I wanted to pursue a career in the arts, I had to be practical. After all, I wanted my life to be different, and I wanted more for my family.

With the support of my parents, family, friends, and scholarships, I was able to pursue my accounting studies at Far Eastern University in Manila. It was there that I learned more about accounting and its complexities—it’s not just about numbers and math, there’s so much more to it.

After graduating magna cum laude, I enrolled in a formal CPA school, passed the CPA exam, and joined one of the Big Four accounting firms. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Starting my career in public practice was challenging, but it offered invaluable learning opportunities.

After a few years, I applied for an opportunity to work in the United States via the H-1B lottery system. I still remember the moment I found out I got selected. One morning, while thinking about how I could help my family finance the house we were building, I sat down and checked my email. There was a message from Edilberto C. Ortiz, CPA, owner of E.C. Ortiz & Co. LLP, congratulating me on my job acceptance—it felt surreal.

When I arrived in Chicago, I knew I’d have a whole new set of challenges to overcome. I’d be starting from scratch, beginning anew. Adapting to a new country wasn’t easy, but I kept my head high, remembering my main motivation: a better life for me and my family.

One significant challenge I had to overcome right away was retaking the CPA exam, as my CPA license from the Philippines wasn’t recognized in the U.S.

Earning my CPA license in the U.S. connected me with organizations like the Illinois CPA Society (ICPAS) and International Society of Filipinos in Finance and Accounting (ISFFA). As an ICPAS member, I now serve as a Young Professional Ambassador and sit on the Young Leaders Advisory Council. This allows me to volunteer my time with high school students, raising awareness about the accounting profession and debunking the myths I once falsely believed about accountants. As a member and officer of ISFFA, I serve as vice president of marketing, which has allowed me to help future CPAs back home who were just like me—Filipino students dreaming of becoming CPAs for a better life.

To this day, the accounting profession has given my life mobility, continuous growth, learning, and diverse opportunities. From helping my family financially, traveling to many places, and exposing me to different businesses and industries, accounting has changed my life for the better.

While there have been many struggles along the way, these experiences shaped me and will continue with me throughout my life. You too may face many challenges or rejections, but remember, it only helps you find a different path—a redirection! If faced with setbacks or failures, just keep going—I promise, with accounting, there’s a better life awaiting you.

Related Content:

• GEN NEXT: Passing the CPA Exam Teaches You More Than Accounting: While staying disciplined and committed to studying is paramount to successfully passing the CPA exam, it’s the support from those around you that matters the most.
• GEN NEXT: Embrace Risk: Pursue Opportunities Tied to Your Passions: Along your career journey, the people you meet and opportunities you pursue will define your impact—make sure they align with your passions.