Actuary vs. CPA

Good Evening Monkeys,

Currently, I go to a non-target majoring in Accounting. However, I find it really boring and feel that I can do better as an Actuary. All I need to do is pass a certain number of exams before I hit the salary level that I am comfortable with. I find this as a better alternative to getting a Masters in Accounting and working as a CPA.

I am wondering is doing Actuarial Work at a top firm (Towers Watson) more prestigious than Big 4 Audit for a Top MBA to break into consulting? Or am I better off going the traditional route, doing a Masters in Accounting, and becoming a Big 4 Auditor before applying to top Business Schools.

I know that Big 4 Audit places relatively well and I could realistically recruit to become an Investment Banking Associate, but I know that I wouldn't like to do so as I have a 1% chance of breaking into Private Equity.

All Advice would be appreciated. Thanks

3 Comments
 
Best Response

The key sentence here is "...for a top MBA to break into consulting".

If you want to get into a top MBA, the actuarial work will more likely get you in more than a Big 4. This is assuming all else is equal of course (that you kill it at work and get great recs).

Once you get into a top MBA, it should put you in a position to recruit for IBD/Consulting roles.

 

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