[KnightsCPA]

Hi guys! I am looking for some advice.

I graduated with my BS in 2010 and have spent the last 2 1/2 years in industry. I also moved across the country after I graduated so I don’t have access to any of school related job search help.

As soon as I’m done with the exam I really would like to make the jump to public accounting and work as an auditor. Does anyone have any advice on how to make this happen? I’m hoping it’s not impossible to break into public after having been in industry for a couple years.

There is a job posting online for an audit associate position but I’m scared to apply for it! Is there anything special I should do to my resume? Do you list the exams you’ve passed and when you expect to be done? Will they even pay attention to a random application such as mine?

Thank you in advance!

FAR - 83
AUD - 81
REG - 92
BEC - 87
ETHICS - Done

[Lost1]

I'm pretty much in the same situation – I've been in industry for a few years and when I'm done with exams I'd like to try breaking into PA. My main reason is because I want to open my own firm one day, and to do that, PA experience is a must. I'm a bit concerned about my age tho cuz i'm in my late 20's (almost 30) gambling with my career at this point is pretty scary.

It seems like public accounting firms do not consider industry experience as “experience” most likely you will start as entry level even if you get hired. I saw a thread about this topic and most people said the most important factor is your GPA!

kickass GPA will get you interviews and from that point on it's about your interpersonal skills and how well you “fit” to the firm.

a few questions for you..

what's your reason for this? what's your GPA? are you aiming for Big4 or mid-sized or small? and how old are you?

"If you can do it, I can do it better."

[KnightsCPA]

Sounds like we're in a similar situation! I don't mind starting entry level at all…

To answer the questions:

What's your reason for this? I am BORED out of my mind in industry… I want to be challenged and work with other accountants. I also would like to make a reasonable salary.

What's your GPA? 3.25 overall… not stoked about it, but it is what it is.

Are you aiming for Big4 or mid-sized or small? Big 4 or midsized preferably.

How old are you? I am 23.

FAR - 83
AUD - 81
REG - 92
BEC - 87
ETHICS - Done

[Lost1]

I would say go for it. you're young and once cpa exams completed, you will have a good chance. But getting into Big4 is tricky I heard. they only hire either fresh college graduates or “experienced” hire. search for this topic and read up – there are a lot of threads about this topic. Good luck

"If you can do it, I can do it better."

[Mayo]

So a few things that I am aware of…Big 4 experience hires means experience in public accounting at another firm. If it's a smaller firm they might bring you down a level from what you were at your old firm. So if you were a first year senior, they might make youa second year staff. Dunno, it depends on how much they're hurting for people.

Anyways OP, since you're in industry it's not going to fit their criteria. However, I do think you have a shot at smaller firms. They typically are not as strict criteria-wise (i.e. must fit a specific profile) in their hiring process. From there you can move to big 4, regionals, or stay there.

Also, after 2.5 years of experience I don't see your GPA as a factor at all. Leave it off your resume. Grades are typically the most important for internships and entry level positions right out of college. After that, they hardly matter.

Finally, I'd tailor your resume to highlight experience in working in a team setting, under intense deadlines, and your communication skills. I think the resume should focus less on specific tasks, (e.g. I enter all month-end accrual journal entries, the the reversing entries, complete the bank reconciliations, etc.), and focus more on the skills required for success in public accounting.

Oh, don't forget to,include passed CPA sections as well. good luck!

Mayo, BBA, Macc

[Author]

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