I am graduating in December and it seems the big hiring season is in September. I don't know if I should apply in Sept. or after I graduate. The thing is, I only have like a 3.2 GPA so I don't know if that would get me an interview at a Big4. So I was going to start studying for the CPA exam and hopefully pass at least a couple tests so that I can put that on my resume when I apply. Would being able to put that you passed two sections so far help land an interview?
A 3.2 GPA is tough, but it depends on the school. If your college has a reputation for strict grades, recruiting lowers its GPA requirement. Otherwise it's usually 3.5 and up. The GPAs below 3.5 are usually references or have something unique that caught the individual's eye. So in your case, you can always apply in september, and if you don't get an interview, try again in december - this time with the CPA sections under your belt.
I also was looking to distinguish myself more since I have a light load this semester, I was thinking of taking a course that teaches you MS Access. Is that something that can be useful and look good on a resume for a Public firm?
Not really. Excel - absolutely, Access - sure it'll help, but not for recruiting. While we're at it - can everyone please take an advanced excel class prior to working? You can really differentiate yourself if you can.
I haven't done a public accounting internship or even an accounting internship, but this Summer I did an internship at Blue Cross Blue Shield in a Learning & Development department. Does that matter at all?
Any kind of corporate work experience will help, it's better than working at your nearby ice cream shop (nothing against ice cream shop employees). For intern applicants, it's not a big deal since you're applying to get your first corporate experience. For entry level hires, it's pretty important, and differentiates yourself from others.
A 3.2 GPA is tough, but it depends on the school. If your college has a reputation for strict grades, recruiting lowers its GPA requirement. Otherwise it's usually 3.5 and up. The GPAs below 3.5 are usually references or have something unique that caught the individual's eye. So in your case, you can always apply in september, and if you don't get an interview, try again in december - this time with the CPA sections under your belt.
I also was looking to distinguish myself more since I have a light load this semester, I was thinking of taking a course that teaches you MS Access. Is that something that can be useful and look good on a resume for a Public firm?
Not really. Excel - absolutely, Access - sure it'll help, but not for recruiting. While we're at it - can everyone please take an advanced excel class prior to working? You can really differentiate yourself if you can.
I haven't done a public accounting internship or even an accounting internship, but this Summer I did an internship at Blue Cross Blue Shield in a Learning & Development department. Does that matter at all?
Any kind of corporate work experience will help, it's better than working at your nearby ice cream shop (nothing against ice cream shop employees). For intern applicants, it's not a big deal since you're applying to get your first corporate experience. For entry level hires, it's pretty important, and differentiates yourself from others.
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I have recently been offered a position as auditor in one of the big 4 firms in Asia Pacific. I want to thank you for that. Your blog has given me so much insight into the life of an auditor which really helped during the interviews. Thank you.
Now, I have approximately 2 weeks before commencing. I am excited, but anxious at the same time. Do you have any advice for fresh grad entering big 4? and how to prepare oneself for the job?
Thanks.