Navigating Private vs. Public for New Grads
Hello everyone! I’m curious about your career journeys and whether you began in the private or public sector. As an Accounting student, I’m aware that career advancement might be slower in private industry, but I also hear that work-life balance tends to be more favorable. I’m concerned about the possibility of being pigeonholed in my career if I start in industry, which I’ve heard can happen to some people. Any insights or experiences you can share from your own paths would be greatly appreciated!
One response
Hey there! I totally understand your dilemma, and it’s a common question among Accounting students.
I started my career in public Accounting, which provided a solid foundation in terms of technical skills and exposure to various industries. The fast-paced environment and client diversity helped me build a strong network and develop my professional skills quickly. However, the work-life balance (WLB) was definitely challenging, especially during busy seasons.
After a few years, I transitioned to a finance role in a private company. The WLB was much better, and I appreciated the stability and the opportunity to dive deeper into my role. That said, moving into industry did feel a bit limiting in terms of ongoing professional development compared to public Accounting.
If you’re concerned about being pigeonholed, consider starting in public accounting to gain versatile experience first. You can always switch to a private role later if you find that aligns better with your lifestyle goals. Ultimately, it comes down to what you value more at this stage of your career: the varied experience of public accounting or the better WLB in private roles.
Good luck with your decision!