Accountants are responsible for a wide variety of finance-related tasks that are primarily associated with preparing financial records. These tasks oftentimes include computing taxes and preparing tax returns, organizing and maintaining financial records, and ensuring statements are accurate. Accountants in the United States must perform all of this work while abiding by Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).<br><br>Accountants generally have a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. In addition, many accountants have a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential, which is obtained by passing a national exam and a completing a minimum number of college coursework hours. Accountants usually fall into one of four categories: public accountant, management accountant, government accountant, or internal auditor.

Registered nurses (RNs) assess and evaluate patient conditions, and then plan, implement, provide, and document patient care in a manner that follows professional nursing standards and outlined practices. RNs usually do all of this in conjuction with doctors, nursing assistants, and other healthcare professionals. RNs oftentimes have a specialty; common specialties include labor and delivery, oncology, critical care, medical-surgical, and much more. Most RNs work in state, local, or private hospitals.<br><br>RNs need to have graduated from an accredited nursing program, typically obtaining a Bachelor's degree in nursing, and possess a license in the state they want to work in. To become licensed, they must take and pass the NCLEX-RN, which is the national licensing exam, and complete any additional licensure requirements, as determined by the state of practice. The best RNs are compassionate, observant, and detail oriented.

Finance managers analyze every day financial activities and provide advice and guidance to upper management on future financial plans. They are the root of all major business decisions and their role is crucial to the success of any organization. Finance managers may be employed in many different environments, including both public and private sector organizations. They also operate in a variety of industries, such as banking, finance, healthcare, and insurance.<br><br>Typical duties include reviewing financial reports, monitoring accounts, and preparing financial forecasts. Finance managers also investigate ways to improve profitability and analyze markets for business opportunities, such as expansion, mergers, and acquisitions. The position of finance manager usually requires an advanced degree in accounting, business, economics, or finance, as well as several years of experience in a finance role.

Mechanical engineers develop, design, build, test, and inspect mechanical devices and systems, such as machines, tools, and engines. Since mechanical engineering is a very broad field, they work in a variety of different industries designing a wide range of products. Most mechanical engineers work in manufacturing, research and development, or at companies that offer engineering services.<br><br>Typically, mechanical engineers have a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or in a related field such as mechanical engineering technology. They need advanced mathematical skills to perform calculations and they need to be able to think creatively.