[jvcpa]

Hi folks,

I’m considering applying for an audit or tax internship, I haven’t decided which yet, but I’m not sure I even have a chance to get in as an intern. The internship is for a large, private CPA firm in my region. I’m in my late twenties and have been working full-time for the last five years. I started working out of undergrad for a small company as an ap clerk, I was then promoted to purchasing manager, and I am currently working as a purchasing agent after a spouse’s relocation forced me to find new work. I decided to pursue my CPA about 2 years ago, after I did a lot of research and reflection on previous jobs that I held. I worked as a general accountant for a real estate investment firm while in college, and I really enjoyed that. I took distance learning courses to complete the education requirements, and then started taking the exams in the spring of 2011.

I would like to take a shot at public accounting, first to find out if it’s something I truly want as a career, and secondly, to obtain the work experience necessary for the CPA license. Have any of you had success going down a similar path? I feel discouraged at times, like I either need to go back for a master’s degree just to get my foot in the door. Also, in the off chance that I do find an internship, it’s almost guaranteed that I’ll be taking a 20% pay cut from my current position, that’s a tough pill to swallow but I’m willing to make the sacrifice as long as I’m provided with the opportunity.

Passed: R-F-B-A - Persistence is the key to passing.

[NASBA_needs_BANDWIDTH]

I have a friend that got an econ degree, ended up in an accounting job because a local corporation was hard up for help, took accounting courses and the CPA exam while working, then ended up at Deloitte as a full-time auditor. He just showed a ton of persistence and networked with big 4 recruiters constantly.

I also know a few people who work at my former company that came into internal audit from completely different careers, and they had managed to get internships and eventually full-time positions.

The good news is it's doable; the bad news is it isn't as easy as finding an internship in college. If you explain your situation and show them the steps you've taken to make the career switch (taking the exam, interning in college, etc.), I'm sure a recruiter would give you a chance.

Good luck!

REG- 79
BEC- 87
FAR- 84
AUD- 81

[Author]

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