clips2007 wrote: even if you have a great gpa (Like 3.7+) the big 4 might dismiss you on your lack of communication and networking skills. There are many post here of people with high GPAs getting dissed by big 4 four all the time; expect to see more next recruiting season.

I agree.  I start at a Big 4 in Sept and my GPA was 3.15.  Many folks I know had much higher GPAs than me and did not get in.  Network, network and NETWORK!  If possible get an internship before you graduate; it will help you - not just with the Big 4 - but with other firms as well.  Have you thought about the smaller accounting firms like Grant Thornton, McGladrey, Dixon Hughes?  Why not check them out?  Also, what about Protiviti?  They deal with internal audit mainly - I know sa bunch of people who did internships there and loved it.  It is not as hectic as working in external audit in a Big 4. 

What I trying to say is that you have time.  Buckle down and raise your GPA.  Join the societies that will help you with jobs and attend all the corporate/student events available. And of course,  network, NETWORK and NETWORK!!!!  Let them remember you and you should be fine!!!   This goes for any job, not just the Big 4.  Good luck!!

Look at it this way, having the Big 4 on your resume is like going to an Ivy League school.  It is going to open doors and it will be a lot easier to advance your career with it on your resume.  However, just because you don’t go to the Big 4 doesn’t mean you won’t have a successful career.  Accounting is a high paying profession.  CPAs average about 100k in my state, so chances are you will make a decent salary as a CPA no matter where you end up. 

Also, the Big 4 is not for everyone.  A lot of people hate working for the Big 4.  I think it is more important that you are happy at your job.  Make sure the job you choose is something that you enjoy.  Don’t put yourself through hell chasing the almighty dollar. 

Of course you’re only a freshman in college, so if you’re like me you probably have no idea what kind of job you would enjoy.  An internship is a great idea.  As far as your question of when to start, I would assume it depends on the firm offering the internship.  Some may only be looking for juniors or seniors.  I would shoot for the Big 4 since that is where you want to work after college, but any internship is fine. 

I’m sorry I can’t be of much help with your other questions.  The best advice I can give you right now is don’t try and plan the future so far out.  When I was a freshman in college I was a computer engineering major and wanted to work for Microsoft.  In the next 6 years I ended up joining the Air Force Reserve, changing schools twice, changing majors and passing the CPA exam.  My point is that life is going to throw a bunch of twists and turns at you and you never know where you will be in a few years.  Some planning is good but don’t get hung up on it.  Enjoy the ride!  You only live once.