[sscusc]

Hi everyone,

I would like some advice on where I should be in the short-term. I am currently just studying for the CPA exam with no job.

I graduated with 154 hours in December 2011 (No Masters). I just have a bachelors degree and then I started working at a consulting firm on a temporary assignment. I recently finished and then I decided to move back home and pursue the CPA. I am also applying for jobs that might fit me.

I would like to work in corporate finance/accounting but I would like some advice on other options I should look at in the short term. Right now, I just feel like lost and confused on what I should be doing. I know I wont be as competitive compared to people with actual public accounting experience and masters degrees.

I wasn’t so lucky in getting a public accounting job in college. I can forward my resume to anyone curious to see my background as well.

Thanks

[OttoNeubauer]

Hi sscusc,

I was in a similar position after graduating; I had done well in school, but the Big 4 didn't recruit at my university and I didn't really have any desire for public accounting anyway. After looking for work for several months, I eventually got a job doing QuickBooks data entry in the operations department at a small-to-medium size corporation. I was dissatisfied at first because it was not using my accounting degree in any way. But I worked hard and received a substantial promotion within a year, and at the rate the company is continuing to grow, the options seem limitless. I have seen some people go from being hired in a non-supervisory position to supervising seven people and overseeing key company operations, less than a year later.

Based on my experiences, my advice would be to choose an industry you want to work in, study industry trends, problems, key players, et cetera, identify rapidly growing companies in that industry that you would want to work for, and use networking and your industry knowledge to find a job with them. Don't worry if it seems too basic, because if you stand out you will be noticed and promoted.

Hope this helps.

FAR - 84 (08/25/14)

[Author]

Replies