Does AACSB Accreditation Really Matter for My Career?
Hi everyone! I’m currently a community college transfer student aiming to become a CPA and work in tax at a Big 4 firm. I recently found an excellent local job that I love, but I had been planning to transfer to Illinois State University (ISU) because it’s AACSB accredited and has strong connections to Big 4 firms.
My Current Job:
– Accounting Assistant
– Great pay, flexible hours, and a supportive work environment.
The Dilemma:
– Transferring to ISU would mean leaving my job since commuting isn’t feasible.
– If I stay local, I could attend a non-AACSB school (like Elmhurst, Aurora, or North Central) and keep my job, but I’m concerned about how that might impact my chances with Big 4 firms.
– There’s also the option of commuting to schools in the city like DePaul, but I’m not a fan of city life and have safety concerns.
For those of you working in Big 4 tax or pursuing your CPA—how significant is AACSB accreditation? Would I really be at a disadvantage if I choose a non-AACSB school while gaining valuable experience? Or should I prioritize the recruiting opportunities at ISU, even if it means leaving my job?
I’d greatly appreciate any advice from those who have faced a similar situation! Thank you!
One response
It’s great that you’re thinking carefully about your next steps! AACSB accreditation can provide some advantages, especially for recruitment at firms like the Big 4. Here are a few points to consider that might help you make your decision:
Recruitment Opportunities: AACSB-accredited schools often have strong connections with Big 4 firms and may offer dedicated career fairs, networking events, and recruitment sessions. This can give you an edge when it comes to landing interviews.
Job Experience: Work experience, especially in a relevant field like Accounting, can significantly bolster your resume. If you decide to stay at your current job, the hands-on experience you gain could make you a strong candidate, even if you attend a non-AACSB school.
Networking: Consider the networking opportunities at both ISU and the non-AACSB schools. Sometimes, the connections you make can be just as important as the school’s accreditation. If your current employer has industry connections, staying in your job may open doors for you later.
Online Options: Some AACSB-accredited programs offer online courses or part-time options that could allow you to keep your job and pursue a degree simultaneously. It might be worth looking into this.
Your Career Goals: Think about the long-term. If you are committed to the CPA route and have aspirations of moving up into larger firms, weigh the impact each option could have on your career trajectory.
Ultimately, both paths have their merits. If you feel that the job provides valuable experience that could translate into opportunities, staying at home and going to a non-AACSB school could work well. However, if you can afford to sacrifice your job for a short time to attend ISU, the potential recruitment benefits could be worth it. Balancing both experience and education is key. Good luck!