When Carl Lyndon D. Barsolaso first entered the College of Business and Accountancy at Tarlac State University, he wasn’t entirely sure what he was signing up for. “At first, I honestly didn’t plan to become an accountant,” he admits. But watching so many students enroll in the program at a school known for producing excellent professionals inspired him to give it a try.
The early days weren’t easy. Accounting felt overwhelming, and Carl found himself struggling to keep up. Then one professor offered advice that changed his mindset: “Think as if you are the accountant of your own business.” That perspective shift sparked his curiosity and made him see accounting as more than just numbers—it became a tool for building, sustaining, and growing real businesses.
Key Turning Points
Carl’s career is a story of steady growth, shaped by milestones that came at just the right time. While still in college, he passed the TESDA NCIII in Bookkeeping and later the NIAT Level 1 Certification in Bookkeeping, all while balancing on-the-job training and graduation requirements.
That certification paid off immediately. In his first job interview, he was hired on the spot as an accounting clerk, with his NIAT credential serving as proof of competence and credibility. His career then led him to a rural bank, where his branch went on to be recognized as the Most Outstanding Branch with the Highest Income. Later, during his time with the Local Government Unit of La Paz, he earned the title of Employee of the Year while also passing the Civil Service Exam.
Each experience deepened his expertise, boosted his confidence, and pushed him closer to the professional he is today.
From Clerk to Senior Accountant
Carl’s career began modestly, but through persistence and adaptability, he steadily moved up to more advanced roles. Today, he works as a Senior Accountant serving international clients, specializing in Australian accounting standards.
“It’s something not taught in college,” he explains, “but through company trainings and hands-on experience, my knowledge expanded far beyond what I first imagined.” His journey underscores how learning doesn’t stop in the classroom—it continues in every workplace, every client, and every challenge faced.
Challenges and Lessons
Carl is candid about the struggles he faced early on. “The biggest challenge was understanding the complexity of accounting itself,” he recalls. At times, the technical detail and workload felt overwhelming, especially when balancing OJT, graduation requirements, and exam preparation.
What got him through was discipline and the support of his peers. “My friends and I motivated each other to keep going,” he says. That teamwork helped him develop resilience and shaped the collaborative spirit he now carries into his professional life.
Integrity, Teamwork, and Leadership
Over time, Carl learned that accounting is as much about values as it is about numbers. “Discipline, integrity, and resilience are the cornerstones of this profession,” he says. His leadership style, influenced by his own experiences of encouragement and teamwork, emphasizes collaboration and continuous growth.
Even outside the office, he applies the same mindset. To recharge and regain focus, he goes mountain and rock climbing—reminding himself that every summit requires patience, endurance, and step-by-step effort, much like his career journey.
Passion with Purpose
What keeps Carl motivated is the constant learning the profession offers. Every role, every client, and every training session deepens his knowledge. More importantly, his work allows him to give back to his parents after years of sacrifice. “That gives my work a deeper sense of purpose,” he shares.
Mentorship is also central to his journey. Carl actively encourages colleagues and aspiring accountants to pursue professional development, particularly through NIAT certification. “Expect challenges, but embrace them,” he advises. “The journey won’t be easy, but it’s worth it.”
Certification as a Game-Changer
Carl credits his NIAT certification as a turning point. It directly landed him his first job and gave him a competitive edge early in his career. “It had a huge impact. My first employer hired me immediately because of my certification,” he recalls. It also gave him the confidence to pursue opportunities he once thought were out of reach.
Today, as a Senior Accountant serving international clients, Carl sees NIAT not just as an exam but as a door-opener for young professionals. “NIAT certification can open opportunities you never thought possible,” he says.
Looking Ahead
From a hesitant college freshman to a recognized professional serving clients overseas, Carl Lyndon D. Barsolaso’s journey shows what persistence, certification, and discipline can achieve. His story is proof that the right mix of hard work, values, and continuous learning can take an accountant from the classroom to global opportunities.
