Meet Robert Stiles, CPA, associate director of accounting policy for Time Warner, Inc.

What college or university did you attend?
James Madison University, B.S. Accounting, 1994.

When did you decide to major in accounting and to become a CPA?
I decided sophomore year in college, as it seemed to be the most secure way into businesses and provided the most diverse avenues upon graduation.

What is your current position?
I am the associate director of accounting policy at Time Warner, Inc. My major responsibilities include development of policies and technical inquiries.

What do you like most about your job?
I like working with our divisions in providing responses to technical inquiries on a variety of topics, from revenue recognition to pension accounting.

What piece of advice do you have for students about the "real world" of accounting?
It is much more diverse then most probably think. Heck, I can't even do my own taxes, but most people think CPAs are tax-focused. Accounting is definitely more art than science. Take the time to get on as many varied jobs as you can and spend the first five years of your career learning and seeing as much as you can.

What are some of your volunteer activities?
I volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and other activities through a local church.

What do you do for fun? Hobbies?
My interests include golf, soccer, tennis and traveling, as well as exploring New York City when I have the chance.

What do you think people would be most surprised to learn about you?
I used to be a licensed skydiver (I have about 175 jumps).