Building a career path - Currently taking accounting classes

Hey guys,

I am currently taking accounting classes to satisfy the cpa requirement and planning to take cpa exam at the end of this year.

Here's my current plan:

I will start working as an accountant in a cpa firm and build up some experience on the field (2-3 years) and transfer to finance area to become a financial analyst in a corporation. (I have economics and engineering bachelor degrees)

Someone might ask me why don't I directly go to the finance field. The reason is I do not have any working experience so far neither as accoutant nor financial analyst. My initial goal was to be a financial analyst, but if I like accounting jobs, I will continue in that field. I want to first experience the real field before I choose my ultimate career.

Last time, someone recommended me to get an assurance, litigation jobs in cpa firms, but I could not find enough information about the job availability, qualification, responsibility,.. etc. Is there anyone here who's working in the field?

What kind of job should I pursue as a cpa to later move into finance field?
Will working in public or private matter?
I am planning to start CFA® after finishing CPA.

I will appreciate any helps!

thanks

3 Comments
 

I've seen this several times most often with poor results. Don't wait too long to make the switch or you will find only doors open for acctg jobs (2 yrs max). For HFs / asset mgmt career path The cfa must be complemented with some asset mgmt experience (even the most menial) for it to have the effect you most likely are hoping for but is seldom a career changing catalyst by itself...corporate finance will obviously be a clean fit vs other paths.

 

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