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audit culture

Can you comment a bit on the culture of the big 4s? I heard being a jock & drinking a lot is very important, especially in the first few years. Is this true? and what happens if the person's not a sports person or doesn't like to drink alot?

Not at all, it cannot even compare to the ibanking world. Just be yourself, and be social. Yes, I'd highly recommend socializing with your peers when you first start out, because it's a huge support system for you as you progress up the ladder. Drinking isn't really a factor, it's just an excuse to go out. I know plenty of people who go out and nurse 1-2 drinks the whole time. There's no real pressure from that perspective. Sports is just a topic of conversation in the conference room amongst the guys and the clients, but i'm sure you have enough interests outside of sports to keep a conversation going. Heck, half the big 4 is probably female, so there'll be more talk of television than of sports in the conference rooms. Don't just focus on the audit work. The friends you make at work might be key down the road since most of your starting class wouldn't be at the firms in 4-5 years. Start developing a network, and start early.

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