Literally, the only plusses I can think of - and they are important ones - are:
1) Great on the job experience and exposure to a variety of industries and clients
2) Resume' building
3) Networking / contacts (i.e., possible job offers)

Once you put your 2 years in, there is really no reason to stay any longer. Sure, partners make a ton of money. But if you are partner material, you can make just as much, and often more, in industry...and without losing the years public takes off your life.

Finally, and most importantly for you, the transition from industry to public will be a difficult one. Some can handle it, but most cannot. The additional hours is just one aspect. You also have to be accountable for every minute of your day and maintain billable hours and ratios. You will no longer "own" your work - instead, you will be critiquing others'. Your benefits package will likely pale in comparison to what you have now. But! You are gaining valuable experience that could springboard you to something bigger/better.

I don't envy you, having been there myself several years ago. Best of luck in your decision.

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Posted by kfizzle85

Member since Dec 2005

22022 posts

Posted on 1/20/11 at 10:30 am to Dusty Bottoms

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Posted by tigers444

Member since Jun 2009

3083 posts

Posted on 1/20/11 at 10:40 am to Dusty Bottoms

quote:
Dusty Bottoms

The plusses you pointed out are pretty much what my friend (CPA) has told me. I have another friend who worked two years at a CPA firm and is now in real estate accounting and she said it was the best thing she did. She's not a CPA but she said the experience and having it on the resume helps a lot with future jobs.

I know it will be a definite change going from private/industry to public. Currently work 40-45 hours now but it's pretty flexible. I'm a pretty determined person and I think I can handle the challenges of public. Thanks again!