[raiderkaley]

I received my undergrad in general business with three upper level accounting classes and two basic accounting courses. After graduation, I became a teacher and received a master’s degree in education. I am now going back to school starting in June to take the remaining classes I need to sit for the CPA exam. I have an interview on Monday for a Staff accounting position in a small accounting department. Do you think I will be prepared for this job or am I under qualified? What are some questions they may ask me regarding this position? I am feeling more and more nervous the closer we get to Monday.

[Anonymous]

I think it all depends on the company. Since you have an interview, they obviously at least see the potential for you to be able to learn the job. I'm a good example of someone who got a good accounting job with pretty much no accounting background. I got my undergrad in business management (had only taken two semesters of accounting), had no prior work experience in accounting, and got a job as a cost accountant. I pretty much didn't know the difference between debits and credits, but I got the job because I got a great recommendation. As the old saying goes, it's not what you know but who you know. So after doing that for about three years, I decided it was time to take this accounting thing seriously. I got my masters in accounting in order to fulfill the educational requirements since I only had six accounting credits from my undergrad. And now here I am just trying to finish up FAR and be done with the exam. I think what you need to do in your interview is emphasize that you are eager to learn the position and have the ability to pick things up quickly. They will see you're serious about it since you're taking classes and planning to sit for the CPA exam. Sometimes places like people who haven't picked up bad habits in the past and want a chance to train them to do things exactly their way. Try not to be nervous…just be genuine. Good luck with your interview!

[Sang]

Since you are taking additional Accounting classes, why not pursue your bachelor's or master's degree in Accounting?

I have been working in the industry for the past 6 years doing Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Payroll. A lot of these jobs are entry level positions. Many of these jobs don't even require a bachelor's degree.

For the jobs that I have worked in, many of the accountants that worked there before me didn't have a bachelor's degree.

I think you will be fine. It will be a good opportunity for you to gain some Accounting experience.

Although I have years of A/P, A/R, and Payroll experience, I think I lack the experience for many higher Accounting positions. And this is the reason why I am now pursuing a CPA, and big 4 Accounting experience.

FAR: (05/24/16) | (07/15/16) | (10/22/16)
AUD: (09/07/16) | (11/29/16) |
BEC: TBD
REG: TBD
Using Roger CPA Review + Ninja (MCQs, Notes, Audio)

[Mayo]

“I have an interview on Monday for a Staff accounting position in a small accounting department. Do you think I will be prepared for this job or am I under qualified?”

Meh, experience trumps education IMO. I mean a good base is totally necessary. But if you took intermediate accounting, and felt comfortable, then I'd say you'll be fine.

That being said, be prepared to spin your lack of an accounting degree. One of the tihngs I would be wondering if I were a hiring manager would be:

1. What exactly IS your proficiency in accounting?
2. What experience do you have in accounting? Quickbooks? Tax? Anything?

Personally, don't fret if you don't get this position. Just apply to account temps, and you can get a good base of experience while you are in school.

Good luck though!

Mayo, BBA, Macc

[Author]

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