[mj23]

I graduated from college 2 years ago and shortly after graduation I began working at a small local CPA firm. The work load was not too difficult and I could perform what was asked of me. I begin applying to larger and mid size firms for the opportunities, different industries and the resources. I began working at a mid tier firm and I had no issues before busy season started. I did not perform as well as I wanted to and what I know I am capable of doing. Unfortunately right after busy season my employment was terminated due to poor performance. I don’t wish to get into the details but I am taking full resposibility for my lack of performance. I am currently studying for the CPA and I feel confident that I can pass all sections. I am concern on how the job market will look and how to approach it. I have 5 month gap between my transition from the small(left on my own terms) firm to mid tier firm due to traveling and completing classes to become eligible for the CPA. I want to try public accounting again to see if its really for me and I just had a bad experience with the mid tier firm or If I’m completely not cut out for the industry. I’m unsure what size firm I should target and what I should say on why I’m looking to have my third CPA firm in less than 3 years. Most firms do not hire during the summer and I am concern on creating another gap in my resume (plan to use this gap to take my test). Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

[confusedcandidate]

Was there anything in particular that you struggled with? Try to learn as much as you can from this and improve. Maybe it just wasn't a good fit culturally. It's also possible the firm just fires lots of people after season – bad policy but not unheard of.

Pass an exam or four in the mean time. Public accounting certainly isn't for everyone, but there are thousands of firms out there, and even they can vary dramatically between offices and departments. If I were you I would make friends in other firms and find the best fit for you.

Weekends are meaningless to a CPA candidate

[Author]

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