u/Civil-Connection1809

I’m currently working as an accountant in professional services, but I’ve realised pretty quickly that the desk-based corporate environment just isn’t for me.

I don’t enjoy sitting behind a computer all day, the office culture doesn’t appeal to me, and I’m struggling to see myself doing this for the next 30–40 years. I went to uni and got into accounting because it seemed like the safe career path, but I’m starting to think I would be much happier doing something more hands-on.

I’m seriously considering making the switch and starting a mature-age electrical apprenticeship. I understand I’d be taking a decent pay cut initially and essentially starting again, but the actual work interests me a lot more. Long term, I’d like to become qualified, get a few years of experience behind me and potentially start my own electrical business.

Would appreciate any advice!

So for context i'm currently working in audit and haven't been enjoying it all that much and don't see myself really going any futher down this route, but i have an interest in tax/corporate tax as i can see myself enjoying it more. The only issue is i'm a grad that's been in audit for about 2 months and worried that if i ask to move it'll:

A) Potentially make me look bad for asking to change so soon.

B) Get let go cause still in probabtion period

Would love any advice on the best way to go about trying to transfer internally as i do like the firm i'm at!

I’m currently working in audit while finishing up my degree, and I honestly cannot stand it.

I don’t think it’s just audit either. I look at other areas of accounting and corporate life in general, and none of it really excites me. Every time I’m at work, I feel drained before the day has even properly started. My eyes get heavy, I lose interest almost instantly, and I just don’t care about the work in the way I feel like I should.

Looking back, I don’t think I was ever actually interested in accounting. I picked it because it seemed safe, versatile, and like it would give me options. Now I’m close to graduating and I’m starting to wonder if I’ve just spent years heading toward a career I don’t even want.

I’ve always had an interest in aviation, and lately I’ve been looking into Air Traffic Control. It seems like the kind of work that would be more engaging, has strong earning potential, and doesn’t involve taking work home with you, which is a big plus for me the only issue is the potential commute and potential need to relocate across Australia!

Has anyone here changed careers before even really starting in their degree-related field? Is it stupid to walk away from accounting this early, or is it better to make the move now rather than force myself through years of something I already dislike?

Would really appreciate advice from anyone in accounting, ATC, aviation, or anyone who left corporate life for something completely different.