Before Apel, she worked for many years at other CPA firms, focusing on taxes, accounting, and training interns. Pam received her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Lewis University in Illinois and is a licensed CPA. She also has a master’s degree in social work and worked for a few years in child and family counseling. Her time outside of the accounting world wasn’t all a waste. According to Pam, “The psychology comes in handy when working with people from all walks of life.”