Accounting Advice

College Majors Business Major
1

I’m a sophomore at VT with a 3.67 gpa (if this is relevant). I’m enrolled in the intro level business courses and find them challenging, but I’m hanging in there. My gpa will probably slip a little this semester, but is expected to stay above a 3.5. I’m still debating whether or not to get a cpa license. The reason being, I’m not sure what my career goals are. The two options that I’m considering right now are:

The typical masters in accounting > cpa certification > Big 4 > branch off into whatever or
bachelors in accounting > minor in international studies > (cpa certification) > working in small/mid-size firm

I know this will surprise some people, but the salary benefits of a cpa aren’t that important for me. I’m not looking to become a partner or make six figures. I just want something comfortably reasonable that I can support myself with with which accounting will offer me even if I don’t have a cpa. The reason I choose accounting was because of the employment stability and job placement upon graduation.

What are my chances if I decide to go the big 4? Will a minor in international studies help me stand out to employers if I decide to not pursue a cpa or should I focus on landing internships for the experience?

2

I am a CPA who went the Big 4 route so I am biased but here are a few things to consider:

-You need 150 credits to become a CPA regardless of if you go Big 4 or not. Many people accomplish this by getting a 1 year MS in accounting. Regardless of which direction you take, (Big 4 or small firm) you will need these credits.

-If you are in the accounting field I don’t see any great advantage to having a minor in international studies unless you seek to work overseas which does not seem to be part of either of your plans. If it is an interesting topic to you and you can fit it in there is no harm, but generally minors don’t mean much.

-If you have a chance to go with a Big 4 firm, I’d suggest doing so for at least a few years. It is a lifetime credential in the field and is likely to open up doors to other opportunities going forward.

-Your chances of getting into a Big 4 firm will depend largely on your GPA and how well you interview. Having some activities/leadership roles on campus won’t hurt.