Navigating the Path to Public Accounting: Seeking Guidance After CPA Success

Hello fellow finance enthusiasts,

I am pleased to share that I have successfully completed all sections of the CPA exam and hold 150 credit hours. Previously, I worked as a Financial Analyst and operated in logistics as an Operations Analyst, roles that honed my expertise in planning, reporting, and data management. I am well-versed in analytics and highly skilled in tools such as Excel and Power BI.

Recently, I made the decision to pivot towards public Accounting to facilitate my long-term transition to the United States, where I am now based in Texas. However, I’ve encountered significant challenges in my job search.

From my experience, it appears that many firms are looking for candidates with:

• A degree in Accounting from a U.S. institution, and
• At least one year of public accounting experience

Unfortunately, I lack both of these qualifications, which has made it difficult to secure interviews.

I want to clarify that I am not particularly selective; I am open to positions offering around $60,000 and am willing to relocate if necessary. While I recognize the value of pursuing further education, enrolling in a master’s program is currently not feasible for me due to my responsibilities as a primary supporter for my dependent.

I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights from those who have successfully navigated a similar career shift. How can I break into public accounting without the typical local credentials or experience? Your thoughts and recommendations would be incredibly helpful as I strive to embark on this new chapter in my professional journey. Thank you!