[Anonymous]

Hello all,

I need some advice/guidance. I currently work in the private sector of accounting with my MBA and eligibility to sit for the CPA exam (make about 60K). I’ve always wanted to try out public accounting and was admitted to UNC Chapel Hill for their MAC program. My question is, should I pursue the Mac and go public to gain that coveted experience or stay put where I’m at and try to just pass the exam? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Fyi the Mac is online so I would be able to still work at my job and go to school, would run into a dilemma if I had to take an internship with a full time job however.

[ruggercpa2b]

You are better off staying where you are working on the exam and then try to go to public as an experienced hire.

AUD - NINJA in Training
BEC - NINJA in Training
FAR - NINJA in Training
REG - NINJA in Training

AUD - 1/6/18
FAR - TBD
REG - TBD
BEC - TBD

AUD - 73, 72 retake 7/2/2016
BEC - 8/20/2016
REG - TBD
FAR - TBD

I am so ready for this nightmare to be over. Been at this way too long.

[ajwynn30]

I agree focus on CPA and the make the move. Will your employer cover any of the MSA?

[ultrarunner]

Is your school heavily recruited by public accounting firms? If so, it is worth going for it. It is not impossible to do online school while studying for the CPA and working full-time, but it would be very difficult. Please set your goal and determine what should be your priority. From my personal experience, being in school gives you a better chance to get a job in public accounting than finishing the CPA. Once you graduate, your windows are closing even if you are a CPA. Public accounting firms love to hire young fresh graduates than seasoned CPAs for the entry position. To be considered for experienced hire, you must have experience in public. Good luck.

CPA/ MST/ Roger CPA Review

FAR 72,67,79 (Roger+Wiley test bank)11/15
AUD 80 (Roger)10/15
BEC 80 (Roger)4/16
REG 63,78 (Roger+Ninja MCQs)5/16

[Author]

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