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db729
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Joined: 22 Apr 2010
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Posted: 24 Sep 2011 at 15:26 \| IP Logged

Smart wrote:

db729 wrote:

So I'm sure most of you know that recruiting for Big 4 and other public accounting firms should be happening in the coming month. If I can, I would be more than happy to answer any questions. Feel free to ask me about advice, recruiting, interviews, the job, pros/cons, exit opportunities, whatever else you feel like asking. I'll be as candid and thorough as possible.

Well aren't you special !

Thanks!!

Virgil
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Posted: 24 Sep 2011 at 16:12 \| IP Logged

db729 wrote:

Pilly wrote:

Does the difference in class size mean its more
competitive, or does it just mean that most people don't
apply for it?

Hmm I've never talked to that with HR before but I would imagine it's most likely because less people apply. The winter internship coincides with most students' school calendar, which obviously limits their ability to do internships from January - March. I know there are a few accounting dedicated programs that allow/encourage students to intern during 2nd semester, which is usually I've seen a winter intern. Plus I can't imagine Big 4 not wanting people to help out during busy season. Interns billing rates are really cheap compared to the rest of the staff and there's always work for them that could be done. Yeah my guess is that less people apply cause of school.

There could be the case that there are just less spots, but again my intuition tells me otherwise. I will tell you that winter internship is much more interesting than summer internship though. Way more $$, almost everything paid for, and you're actually doing audit work. Downside is of course more hours, but OT pay isn't anything to complain about.

Just wanted to add that a winter internship gives you a better idea of what busy season is like.

When I interned I spoke with a first year staff/associate who was shocked with the workload during busy season. He had done his internship during the summer and thought the hours were pretty much 9-5. Needless to say he was in for a rude surprise when he started working and January rolled around.

Virgil
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Posted: 24 Sep 2011 at 16:16 \| IP Logged

db729,

Starting Big 4 audit next Fall. Any suggestions on how soon to start being vocal about moving to TS? I would imagine building a reputation for hard work and some networking goes a long way, but don't want to rush it.

I know you mentioned it in one of your other posts, but how exactly would you approach making the switch? (In regards to talking to certain ppl, etc.)

db729
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Joined: 22 Apr 2010
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Posted: 24 Sep 2011 at 17:59 \| IP Logged

Virgil wrote:

So I'm actually in the middle of this process right now, so we'll see how it plays out. But I would first say don't think about TS too much if you haven't started. TS is basically advanced auditing, so audit lays the foundation for you to switch. Just don't want you to focus so much on TS that you forget to build your foundation in audit.

With that said, you'll definitely have to make yourself visible as a strong performer. I first talked an informal mentor and my group's HR about it towards the end of my first busy season. At that time, I already knew I built a strong reputation for myself. I don't know when you'll do that, but I think you should kind of have an idea if you're a strong performer or not before you talk to HR about it. The reason is because TS will ask your coach about your performance in audit, and if you're at the bottom half of your class, you're probably not going to get into TS.

As far as people to talk to, your coach and your group's HR is a given. They'll be the ones working out the logistics and coordinating the details. But beyond that, make sure you talk to people in the group that you're trying to get in. Doesn't matter if you want to get into TS, Tax, a different industry, a certain client, etc. Always make your name known by reaching out to people in those groups to show you're taking initiative. If you do that, it shows you're committed. I had my groups HR put me in touch with TS HR, who then put me in touch with managers/directors in TS to get my name out there. So yeah, aside from your coach, definitely take charge and talk to people in other groups.

The thing with Big 4 is that there really are a lot of opportunities for you. But the first thing you have to do is make a good impression, so you have managers/partners/etc to support your cause. Two is to be vocal about what you want and take charge of the situation. Last is to just be patient. These things never happen overnight, but it will if you're patient and just keep on doing a good job in the meantime.

TheCount66
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Joined: 22 Sep 2011
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Posted: 24 Sep 2011 at 21:26 \| IP Logged

hey i was wondering what your opinion on the Macc degree is. I made a post in big 4 talk but nobodys answered it so far. Are most of the people at your particular firm getting their masters nowadays or just 150 hour eligible (or neither). Im looking at Chicago which doesnt have as strict of rules so any help would be appreciated

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