Seeking Advice on Career Path (USA)
I’m reaching out for some serious advice as an international student. Should I continue pursuing a career in Accounting, or is it time to pivot to finance?
I come from a non-target school and my undergraduate degree in Accounting isn’t a STEM major. I’m seriously contemplating enrolling in a Master of Science in Accounting (MSA). However, I’m concerned about my chances of landing a position at a Big Four firm or even a midsize accounting firm that offers sponsorship. If that doesn’t work out, I fear I won’t be able to transition into a different career path. I’m currently based in the Maryland and Virginia area (the DMV), and I’m unsure how much the state matters for job prospects.
There’s been a lot of talk about a declining number of CPAs in the industry, with some suggesting that now is the right time to enter the field. Still, I’m uncertain about firms’ willingness to sponsor international students. I understand that companies often prioritize U.S. citizens and permanent residents, which I completely respect. However, I also want to know if pursuing a career in accounting would be a waste of my resources if I can’t secure a position.
From what I’ve heard, KPMG doesn’t typically sponsor, PwC only sponsors native Chinese, Japanese, and Korean students (I speak Korean, but I’m not a native speaker). As for Deloitte and EY, I believe they are currently offering sponsorship opportunities. If I do go forward with my master’s, I plan to attend a targeted university.
I’m looking for honest opinions: do you think there’s a real chance for international students to be hired by Big Four firms, not just for internships but also for full-time positions? Thank you for your insights!
One response
It sounds like you’re at a crossroads, and it’s completely understandable to feel uncertain about your future path, especially as an international student. Here are some points to consider that might help you in making your decision:
Evaluate Your Passion and Interests: Do you truly enjoy Accounting, or do you see it more as a means to an end? If you have a strong interest in finance and believe you’d be happier and more fulfilled in that field, it might be worth exploring that option.
Job Market Research: Look into job opportunities in both Accounting and finance fields to see which is more promising for international students. Consider reaching out to alumni from your school or networking through LinkedIn to gain insights into their experiences and the current market landscape.
STEM Designation: If you’re leaning towards finance, check if the programs you’re considering offer STEM-designated degrees. This could potentially extend your OPT (Optional Practical Training) period, giving you more time to secure a job.
Networking: Networking can open doors, especially for international students. Attend events, join professional organizations, and connect with professionals in both Accounting and finance. Building relationships can lead to opportunities that may not be widely advertised.
Targeted University for MSA: If you decide to pursue your MSA, focus on getting into a well-regarded program with strong recruiting ties to the firms you’re interested in. A targeted school can improve your chances of being noticed by recruiters.
Consider Alternate Options: If accounting at the Big 4 or even mid-sized firms seems like a long shot, look into smaller firms or accounting roles in different sectors where sponsorship might be more flexible.
Firm Policies on Sponsorship: Keep up-to-date with firm-specific policies and trends regarding sponsorship. Sometimes firms can change their hiring practices based on demand. While it’s true that many firms prioritize U.S. citizens and permanent residents, some do hire international students, especially if you have a unique skill set or language proficiency.
Plan B: It’s wise to have a backup plan. If you pursue accounting and it doesn’t work out, what alternatives could you look at in finance or other business areas? Keeping your options open can reduce the pressure of feeling stuck in one path.
Ultimately, the decision should align with your career goals and personal interests. Whatever path you choose, try to gain relevant experience, build your network, and remain open to different opportunities. Good luck!