[Anonymous]

I really need some guidance. While I was an undergrad I messed up and got some bad grades in my accounting classes. It was not because I didn’t understand the material. I was working full time, taking a full time course load, girlfriend got pregnant, bought a house, etc.. My GPA was 3.23 when I graduated and I went straight into a Macc program where I have a 3.73 GPA. I also got laid off from my job a couple months ago and have been late on some bills.

Will these two things hold me back from getting into public accounting? Even at a small firm?

We are going through recruiting now. I have been getting interviews, but I’m afraid that when they see my transcript that I will not be considered for a position.

[Anonymous]

No. If u completed a Macc program with higher gpa, they will give more weight to that gpa rather than your undergrad. Regarding your credit, they don't check credit until after decision to hire is made, along with other background checks. Good luck

[Sandra]

Have you checked your credit yourself? It might not be nearly as bad you expect it to be.

Re: GPA I have no real idea how it works at the big 4. I haven't been asked for my GPA for years, but when I was starting out and was asked I had to explain away a GPA that makes your undergrad GPA look out of this world high. I was honest about it and just said that it took me a while to settle into being a focused grownup (although I didn't word it like that- LOL). I would imagine that your new and improved GPA will show them that you've changed your ways.

Although honestly I would have killed a puppy for a 3.2 in my first two years of college. 🙂

[Minimorty]

I graduated with a 2.4. Nobody asked and nobody cared.

[Sandra]

Are you at one of the big 4 mini? Just curious. I think we've broken up again and you're back with Cosmo or Mrs300, but for even as an online-ex I feel like I should know what you do.

[Minimorty]

Lol. I only have open relationships. Like to keep my options open. Cosmo is never around anymore either. Wonder what she is up to.

I'm not at a big 4. I have my own valuation and forensic accounting firm.

[Sandra]

Maybe she's hanging out with her real boyfriend? ;-D

[Anonymous]

Thanks for your responses everyone! I hope you guys are right. There is so much emphasis on GPA, especially with the big 4. Does anyone know if the look at every grade on your transcript? Some people say yes, others say they just look to see if you have the degree you say you have.

[Soundwave]

I don't think employers care about your transcript once you've been offered the position. Sure they will look at it, only to verify everything you've stated is correct. They won't care that you messed your first two years. Your undergrad won't even matter if you're a grad student.

[Author]

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