[Anonymous]

Hi Everyone,

I have a really tough situation right now. Just some background info on me.. I have a 3.22 GPA, passed the CPA exam, work in real estate as a property accountant for 2 years, and currently a MAcc student. I accepted a position in the largest accounting firm in the state. I really like this firm and I can see myself there long-term. I submitted my resignation letter at work and the CAO calls me to tell me I’m making a mistake. She says I should really do Big 4 as it provides the best opportunities. She’s well known in the Big 4 and she’s recommended me to a lot of partners. She’s also asked other employees at my company that were Big 4 to talk to their Big 4 connections to put in a good word for me. Her effort to get me into the firm is making me reconsider my decision. How much weight does a recommendation have? Can it offset my GPA? I have C’s in some of my accounting classes. I’m scared to burn a bridge with the regional firm and then not get an offer at the Big 4. Should I take the regional firm offer and see what happens with Big 4? Maybe they have me start a year later…

Any advice would help!

[mla1169]

If the CAO would consider it a burned bridge that you didn't succumb to her pressure for Big 4, she's not the bridge you want. If she's any kind of manager she'll respect your decision of career path.

Jade of course they've already hired someone. Once a resignation letter is submitted most companies can't afford to twiddle their thumbs hoping the person changes their mind. They need someone ready to hit the ground running once the resigned leaves.

FAR- 77
AUD -49, 71, 84
REG -56,75!
BEC -75

Massachusetts CPA (non reporting) since 3/12.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the responses everyone!

They were previously looking to fill a position. It came down to two candidates. We extended an offer to the first candidate. Since I submitted my resignation letter, they contacted the second candidate and extended an offer so I can train them before I leave. They extended a “temp to full-time” offer though. My manager and supervisor said they would get rid of the new guy if I decided to stay. I don't think that's the case though.

I decided I'm going to go with the regional firm! I thought about it all weekend and I truly believe it's the place for me. The whole interviewing process felt so natural that I know i would fit right in. I'll tell the CAO today of my decision.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the responses everyone!

They were previously looking to fill a position. It came down to two candidates. We extended an offer to the first candidate. Since I submitted my resignation letter, they contacted the second candidate and extended an offer so I can train them before I leave. They extended a “temp to full-time” offer though. My manager and supervisor said they would get rid of the new guy if I decided to stay. I don't think that's the case though.

I decided I'm going to go with the regional firm! I thought about it all weekend and I truly believe it's the place for me. The whole interviewing process felt so natural that I know i would fit right in. I'll tell the CAO today of my decision.

[Author]

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