I work in Chicago and started at a Big 4. Started at $57k in 2014, then went to $60k after a year and left at $67k after 2 years.
I still work in Chicago but now work for a large financial institution where I make $80K a year with 10% bonus annually. Unfortunately no bonus for me when I get my CPA, but at this point I just want to get it done and do not care about getting money for it. I know it will pay off in the future when looking to further my career.
wow jessica! thats a big jump. Thats awesome! I too hope to make that much one day but this CPA exam though. Feel like I won't get it done before the changes. I don't even know if I can pass.. sigh*
You will! Those 2 years in B4 were the worst years of my life both mentally and physically! The worst was not feeling good enough or smart enough to pass this test. No support or help from my team really made it draining. But being this close to being done it all seems worth it and really not that bad. Trust me it is not easy but hey it looks like you just started on the journey so dont worry! It took me a couple of failed tries a year off and a new energy to pass to get this far. Just keep focused and it will happen!
Thanks.. this may not really relate to the topic but how often is it the B4 will fire/let go someone for not passing the exam? Im worried because I will be starting in August with one of the B4 in Detroit. I just don't know how long it will take before passing.
You will not get fired or let go ever for not passing the exam. It was not a written stipulation in my offer letter to pass the exam so therefore they would have no grounds to fire you solely on that. However, if you want to be promoted to manager you need to pass the exam. You can be promoted all the way through senior but when it is time for you to be considered for a management role they would most likely overlook you. Also, I am sure it would come up in your review if you had not passed the exam by the time you are up for manager, it would hurt you a little if you do not have it by then. In most cases though I have never seen that happen and a lot of people will have it done by the time they reach senior or a year after they make senior. So to that you have a few years before it could start having a negative affect on your performance in B4.
Would definitely suggest you finish before you are say 1-1.5 years in as a staff. More experience means more responsibilities, and if you are going through busy season as a senior it is pretty tough to find time/mental ability to study. However, it is possible to pass any one of the exams during busy season, definitely as a staff, just depends on time management and of course, will power!
AUD - 75 BEC - 80 FAR - 75 REG - 78
It can be done!
FAR - 75
REG - 69, September 16
BEC - 80
AUD - 69, October 16
@Nessie, not sure if you'll get to read this, but 3k for a 1 BR? I'd adjust your neighborhood. I live in a Jr. 1 BR (about 400 SF) and I pay 1800/mo. No doorman, no elevator, etc. Barebones apartment Definitely not a dangerous neighborhood, and the subway isn't that bad, just have to pick the correct line. 4/5 hasn't given me any trouble in 2 years, however delays will get ya, but delays are like gravity for the subway, they are everywhere!
Also, should have contributed to the salary conversation.
Fresh out of college, BS had 150 hours – 43k Raleigh, NC (private company)
Moved to public (consulting/risk advisory) – 52k Charlotte, NC (top regional accounting firm)
Moved to NYC (same accounting firm) – 72k COL adjustment New York, NY
Switched to a large financial institution – 84k New York, NY (with potential for 15% yearly bonus and this company has a pension)
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