[ML17]

I have been working in audit at a Big Four firm for six months know, and long story short I’m fairly certain it is not for me. I am very appreciative of the opportunity and understand it is a big deal for many to work in the Big Four, and I still do my best to learn as much as a can and put forth my best efforts at all times. My question is, would leaving after one year (plan on staying at least one complete year) be a mistake? It seems it is best to stay for at least two years, but I may want to get out of accounting all together. I know having experience at a big four is quite a resume booster and I am paying my dues for a better professional future, but the incentive for me to move up here in comparison to others is not there for me. Any advice is greatly appreciated, thanks!

[FIFOisbetterthanLIFO]

Stay long enough to get your CPA license. Honestly, how much do you think you will have actually learned after one year? You are likely pigeon holed doing one part of the audit over and over, right? Will that experience be enough that a prospective employer will see the value in your one year? Maybe and maybe not. I think it's all how you sell yourself and what you are comfortable/capable of handling because everyone catches on at a different pace and some managers allow you to do a little bit more than others.

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Licensed CPA

[Missy]

It depends on who else is applying to the same position. If you're competing against people with no public experience or one year in a small firm sure it's an edge. If it's the type of position that people with several years big 4 experience apply to, they'll have the advantage.

Licensed Massachusetts Non Reporting CPA since 2012
Finance/Admin/HR Manager

[Author]

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