People ask this question over and over...for the same reason people spend $40k-$50k a year on a private school rather than attend a state school at 1/4 of the cost, people will try to work for a Big 4 firm.

The perception is that those private schools will give you the best CHANCE of being successful. On a very very very general basis, that perception is most likley true, but having graduted from a state school paying less than $8k in tuition a year, I can attest that a person from any school/background can be successful. It's the same situation in regards to working for a Big 4 firm. If you go to a Big 4 firm after school you will have a better CHANCE of being succesful, but in the end, nothing is for certain.

I work for a Big 4 firm, and over the last 6 months have seen numerous people at various levels leave the firm and walk into positions that pay them more salary with better hours. Mind you, the last 6 months have been some of the worst times for finding a job, and they still could pick and choose from numerous offers. The Big 4 is a brand and the market pays to attract and hire Big 4 alums. No debate is necessary.

BUT, just like in the college example, people from smaller/regional/less prestigous firms can be and are successful in their careers. If your are willing to grind and work your ass off, you will make money in this world no matter where you come from.