After passing the CPA exam, I had to work under a licensed CPA for a year in order to be issued my license. I felt that most of what I learned that applies to r

After passing the CPA exam, I had to work under a licensed CPA for a year in order to be issued my license. I felt that most of what I learned that applies to real-world issues was acquired while working during that year. The CPA exam was a mix of practical information and a bit of unnecessary gatekeeping in my opinion. I felt that I had already learned most of that information during my undergrad degree and that my graduate degree was overkill. Having to spend more time studying for the exam after two degrees and then spend a year working under someone was too much in total. I believe that accounting is a craft that can be learned while working under a master. I feel similar about my software engineering career now. My experience with all of the credentials to become a CPA is a big reason why I decided to self-teach computer science rather than pursuing another degree. I recognized that if I studied the fundamentals and then worked underneath someone highly skilled, I would be able to build up my skill set as a developer. So far I think that direction has worked out.