Does university prestige matter in the Accouting industry?
I was recently accepted through Early Action to Western Washington University (WWU), an accredited university in my state with a 93% acceptance rate. I decided not to apply to the University of Washington (UW) because I knew I lacked the extracurricular activities and how hard it was to get accepted to their business school. I've heard the "if you don't try you won't know" speech from many people, but I didn't have the motivation to apply to UW. At one point, I even considered taking a gap year, but knowing myself I would get too comfortable and push back the opportunity of gaining hands-on experience during that time.
I gained interest in accounting by taking a small business accounting class at the community college. Not knowing what career path I wanted to go down, I found out that accounting had some job security. I'm also a part of the Running Start program, which means I'll have enough credits to earn my associate degree by the time I start at WWU. The classes I'm taking right now, and in the future, are business-related classes like accounting and economics. I recently got my first job, which is a big step for me, but it also means that finding an internship right now doesn't feel realistic. My ultimate goal is to become a CPA. I'm open to working in either public accounting or industry, though I've heard that starting with public accounting can lead to more lucrative career opportunities down the line if you gain the right experience.
I've researched if Big4 representatives come down to WWU, and they do, but the number of recruitments at WWU is very low. Mid-tier firms, like Moss Adams, recruit a bigger number.
I guess the advice I'm looking for is from people who were in the same position as me. What did you do during your time in college? Am I ruining my chances of getting into the Big 4? A lot of worries have been forming in my head about the future, but I try to remind myself that I should be taking it one step at a time.
Any advice is greatly appreciated. #Fall24
4 answers
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
**Here's some advice for Alyanna:**
**1. Focus on Your Strengths and Opportunities:**
* **Leverage Your Early Start:** Your early start and focus on business-related courses are significant advantages. This will give you a solid foundation and potentially a faster path to a degree.
* **Build Strong Relationships:** Network with professors, advisors, and industry professionals. These relationships can be invaluable for internships, job opportunities, and mentorship.
* **Prioritize Academic Excellence:** Maintain a strong GPA and focus on understanding the core accounting concepts. A solid academic record will increase your chances of securing internships and jobs.
**2. Explore Internship Opportunities:**
* **Local and Regional Firms:** Don't underestimate the value of internships at local and regional firms. These can provide hands-on experience and valuable connections.
* **Online Internships:** Consider online internships to gain exposure to different industries and work environments.
* **Campus Career Services:** Utilize your university's career services to find internship opportunities, attend workshops, and practice interviewing skills.
**3. Develop Soft Skills:**
* **Communication Skills:** Strong communication skills are essential in accounting. Practice clear and concise writing and speaking.
* **Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:** Develop your ability to analyze complex problems and find solutions.
* **Teamwork:** Learn to collaborate effectively with others, as many accounting roles involve working in teams.
**4. Stay Informed and Adapt:**
* **Industry Trends:** Stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the accounting industry.
* **Certifications:** Consider pursuing certifications like the CPA to enhance your career prospects.
* **Be Flexible:** The accounting industry is constantly evolving. Be open to new opportunities and be willing to adapt to change.
**5. Don't Underestimate the Power of Networking:**
* **Attend Industry Events:** Participate in conferences, seminars, and networking events to connect with professionals.
* **Leverage Social Media:** Use LinkedIn to build professional relationships and stay informed about industry news.
* **Alumni Networks:** Connect with alumni from your university who work in accounting to gain insights and advice.
**Remember, while prestige can be a factor, it's not the only determinant of success. Your hard work, dedication, and ability to build strong relationships will play a crucial role in your career.**
By focusing on these areas, Alyanna can position herself for a successful career in accounting, even without attending a prestigious university.
God Bless!
JC.
Angel’s Answer
Doug’s Answer
Looking at your accomplishments, attitude, and preparation, I’d say you’re on a good trajectory to land a position at a respected accounting firm, if not one of the Big4.
All other things being equal, having a well-known university in the education section of your resume helps. As a resume screener or as an interviewer, If I recognized the school, I’d nod and move back to the rest of the resume. If I didn’t recognize the school, I might pause to get more information on it, but just some basics. Also, an interviewer’s knowledge of a school is usually regional. If you get an interview anywhere in Washington state, the interviewer will likely know WWU.
I’ve reviewed and discounted a lot of resumes from candidates that had a degree from an impressive school, but little else on their resume in the form of activities or job experience. While in college, consider getting actively involved in a school club or other activity (Alpha Kappa Psi, AS Business Office, CBE). But, first, scout out the club or activity to make sure you’ll enjoy participating and like the other people there. Check with the WWU Career Services Center about internships. They will have postings and run workshops and career fairs.
Good grades are important on your resume when you’re starting out your career – every other manager I know who reviewed resumes for entry level positions put more weight on good grades than they did on the reputation of the college.
Assuming you pursue a major in accounting or business, talk to your professors. When a representative from a Big4 firm or other accounting firm comes to interview on campus, the interviewer will talk to one or more professors to get recommendations for students that the professor thinks will do well in the industry. If your professors know you, you can be one of those students who gets mentioned.
Good luck Alyanna!
Erin’s Answer
During college, I was very involved in committees, groups (social and educational), and a sorority. They all helped me gain experience in leadership, project management, team building, collaboration skills, etc., which are valuable in the work world, and I enjoyed myself while learning. The job you have is playing the part of an internship. Internships introduce you to "work experience" and the career path you have chosen and add to your resume all the things you are getting with your job.
My suggestion to you is to "be here now." Stay in the present moment, focus on going to a school that will speak to you as a whole person, and learn what you can about the wonderous world of accounting. You may find a career move that speaks to you along your journey.