| Topic Name: |
Graduating @ Christmas - Problem? |
| Message Name: |
MSA vs. UG |
| Date Posted: |
08/03/2006 |
| In Reply To: |
I would have to say that I would probably like to start ASAP after graduating. However, I am assuming that I wouldn't have as much time to study for the CPA in that respect (most people have from May - July to study before they start). So in that way starting in Jan may hurt me (I can do it though). But it is better then 9 months off trying to find in between work.
So as far as you know the December graduation doesn't hurt my chances then? Does the extra semester of UG instead of the MS in Accountancy really hurt my chances in your opinion? I know the MSA would be preferable to more undergrad classes but I can do one extra semester for $8k vs. $20+k for a MSA. My guess is that I will graduate with the following:
- Probably a 3.26 GPA from current school (Grove City College, ranked top 60 most competitive schools in nation by Barons). Transferred here after my first year of college.
- 3.64 GPA University of Vermont (freshman year only)
- Work experience at:
1) Banknorth VT - Teller
2) Public Accounting firm - Tax intern (Largest firm in Vermont)
3) Chittenden Bank and Trust Co. - Credit Analyst Intern.
4) I also ran my own online business for 2 1/2 yrs when I was 16-17 yrs old. Everyone I have interviewed with has been very interested in this (diversification I beleive).
So I realize my current school GPA won't be "amazing" (result of a bad semester), but it is still decent. I was originally heavily considering a MSA program because I felt it would give me the edge I needed to get into a Big 4 firm. However, do you think what I listed above could cut it (be honest)? Or should I do the MSA? I have excellent people skills as well and am very good with clients/customers (not a deadbeat accountant with no social skills :-))
Thanks for your response in advance. Good luck on the work you need to do between now and then.
Thanks!
-Ryan
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| Message: |
Hey Ryan,
It looks like you are on the opposite coast from me and I have to admit, I'm not too keen on the recruiting habits over there. But I'll speak to my experience.
I think you have solid credentials, and when applied to why you want to get into public accounting (I'm sure you'll have a good story to tell the interviewer), that shouldn't be a problem.
I think the bigger issue here is the recruiting metrics. I'm not familiar with your area, so I'm not sure where the nearest offices for the Big 4 are located, or how many people they hire each year, etc. Does the office you want to work for recruit at your college? And if so, what types of candidates do they prefer, UGs or MSAs?
I think finding out this information will likely help you decide better than I can tell you. I don't know if you can get a hold of a recruiter or not, but if you do, try asking them some of the questions mentioned above. Each region is different, so it may be hard to say which is more preferred without looking at recent results.
If the Big 4 do not come to your campus, maybe an MSA at a school where they do recruit at would be preferable to the extra semester of UG. Or you could try your hand at the UG first, and get an MSA later if you find recruiting didn't go so well. I know that's $8K down the drain, but I think in the long run, that's not that much money, all things considered.
Anyway, I'm not sure if this helps, but feel free to ask more questions if you feel it does.
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