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What are the pros and cons of industry accounting professionals and public accounting?
I’m currently studying accounting, and many of my peers including me are planning to pursue the public accounting route and study for the CPA. However, I’m also interested in working directly for a corporation or bank, focusing on roles like financial analysis. I’m unsure whether I should follow the traditional public accounting path or pursue a career in corporate finance or banking. Can you help me understand the pros and cons of each path, and how I can make the right choice based on my interests and long-term career goals?
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14 answers
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Zhuorui!
You're at a great crossroads, and both public accounting and industry accounting have strong career prospects. Your decision should align with your career goals, work style, and long-term vision. Now here is a breakdown of both paths:
1. Public Accounting (CPA Path)
Public accounting firms (like Big 4 or mid-sized firms) provide auditing, tax, and advisory services to clients across industries.
Pros:
Broad exposure: You’ll work with different industries, companies, and financial structures, giving you diverse experience.
Career growth: A CPA license is highly respected and opens doors to leadership roles. Many CFOs and financial leaders start in public accounting.
Networking opportunities: You’ll build strong professional relationships with colleagues and clients.
Higher salary potential long-term: Public accountants who move into industry later often command higher salaries.
Cons:
High workload: Expect long hours and tight deadlines, especially during tax season or audits.
High stress: The fast-paced environment and client expectations can be demanding.
Less control over your work-life balance: Especially in the early years.
2. Industry Accounting (Corporate Finance/Banking)
Industry accountants work directly within a corporation, focusing on financial planning, internal audits, reporting, and financial analysis.
Pros:
Stable work-life balance: Hours are usually more predictable than in public accounting.
Specialization: You’ll gain deep expertise in one company’s finances rather than working with multiple clients.
Strategic impact: You’ll contribute directly to a company’s financial decision-making rather than just auditing or advising.
Faster entry into finance roles: If you’re interested in financial analysis or investment banking, you’ll get hands-on experience sooner.
Cons:
Less broad exposure: You’ll focus on one company’s financials rather than seeing multiple industries.
Slower career progression (initially): Without CPA credentials or public accounting experience, it may take longer to reach executive roles.
Lower salary ceiling early on: Public accountants often earn more in the first few years.
How to Decide?
Go Public If: You want a strong foundation in accounting, broad experience, and leadership opportunities in the future. If you can handle the workload, it’s a great stepping stone to finance leadership roles.
Go Industry If: You’re more interested in financial strategy, analysis, and work-life balance rather than audits and tax filings.
Hybrid Option?
Some professionals start in public accounting for a few years, gain CPA credentials, and then transition into corporate finance or banking with a stronger resume. If you’re unsure, this might be the best route!
Hope this helps—wishing you success in your accounting career! Feel free to reach if you need more advice or guidance good luck! 🤗
Dr. H ✨ BuiltByOneForEveryone
You're at a great crossroads, and both public accounting and industry accounting have strong career prospects. Your decision should align with your career goals, work style, and long-term vision. Now here is a breakdown of both paths:
1. Public Accounting (CPA Path)
Public accounting firms (like Big 4 or mid-sized firms) provide auditing, tax, and advisory services to clients across industries.
Pros:
Broad exposure: You’ll work with different industries, companies, and financial structures, giving you diverse experience.
Career growth: A CPA license is highly respected and opens doors to leadership roles. Many CFOs and financial leaders start in public accounting.
Networking opportunities: You’ll build strong professional relationships with colleagues and clients.
Higher salary potential long-term: Public accountants who move into industry later often command higher salaries.
Cons:
High workload: Expect long hours and tight deadlines, especially during tax season or audits.
High stress: The fast-paced environment and client expectations can be demanding.
Less control over your work-life balance: Especially in the early years.
2. Industry Accounting (Corporate Finance/Banking)
Industry accountants work directly within a corporation, focusing on financial planning, internal audits, reporting, and financial analysis.
Pros:
Stable work-life balance: Hours are usually more predictable than in public accounting.
Specialization: You’ll gain deep expertise in one company’s finances rather than working with multiple clients.
Strategic impact: You’ll contribute directly to a company’s financial decision-making rather than just auditing or advising.
Faster entry into finance roles: If you’re interested in financial analysis or investment banking, you’ll get hands-on experience sooner.
Cons:
Less broad exposure: You’ll focus on one company’s financials rather than seeing multiple industries.
Slower career progression (initially): Without CPA credentials or public accounting experience, it may take longer to reach executive roles.
Lower salary ceiling early on: Public accountants often earn more in the first few years.
How to Decide?
Go Public If: You want a strong foundation in accounting, broad experience, and leadership opportunities in the future. If you can handle the workload, it’s a great stepping stone to finance leadership roles.
Go Industry If: You’re more interested in financial strategy, analysis, and work-life balance rather than audits and tax filings.
Hybrid Option?
Some professionals start in public accounting for a few years, gain CPA credentials, and then transition into corporate finance or banking with a stronger resume. If you’re unsure, this might be the best route!
Hope this helps—wishing you success in your accounting career! Feel free to reach if you need more advice or guidance good luck! 🤗
Dr. H ✨ BuiltByOneForEveryone
Thanks for your encouragement!
Zaroon
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Zaroon
Quirdia Robinson-Ahmad, truly appreciate it! Knowledge grows best when shared—keep inspiring!
Dr H
Leo Nine, your support adds to the brilliance! Wisdom grows when shared—appreciate it!
Dr H
Glad you found it helpful, Doctor Ashley! Appreciate your support!
Dr H
You are welcome Zaroon. I am glad it resonated with you and helped out. Thank you man.
Dr H
Thank you, Chinyere! I really appreciate your thoughts and support. It's always great to connect with like-minded individuals who share the same passion for growth and knowledge.
Dr H
Updated
Harry’s Answer
Hi Zhuorui, Great question and you are right to delve into the differences - they are worlds apart.
I will let others tell you about public accounting as Dr. H and Zachary have done - and a good job, I will add.
I considered public but changed my mind and never regretted it - and that was MANY years ago. I have always been in the private sector. In the private sector (manufacturing, for me), I have rubbed shoulders and been exposed to all of the different parts of the business. I worked with Marketing, Engineering, Legal, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing and HR, to name a few. I walked the floor to understand how a product is made and the vertical flow of production, Why certain quality tests are needed, even though it appears to be an unproductive expense.
I have worked in Mexico and been involved with US Customs laws and the hidden costs of importation and legal compliance. I have traveled to Canada and China to view and understand foreign costs and the international impact of foreign production.
Granted, manufacturing is different than other private sectors like an advertising agency or working at Home Depot, but I never regretted it.
The most important benefit was to think three steps ahead. What does this financial decision mean "Down the Road?" It might seem Ok in the short term, but can be costly to the company later on (a good trait to develop no matter what you do.)
Zhuorui, I suggest you search out your desires. Do you like structure and get handed assignments? Are you a team player or prefer to work alone? Can you set your own goals or are more structured and want/need to follow guidelines or procedures? Asking yourself these questions may help guide you in a decision.
Good luck, Zhuorui. Let me know if you might have any specific questions.
Harry Clapeck
I will let others tell you about public accounting as Dr. H and Zachary have done - and a good job, I will add.
I considered public but changed my mind and never regretted it - and that was MANY years ago. I have always been in the private sector. In the private sector (manufacturing, for me), I have rubbed shoulders and been exposed to all of the different parts of the business. I worked with Marketing, Engineering, Legal, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing and HR, to name a few. I walked the floor to understand how a product is made and the vertical flow of production, Why certain quality tests are needed, even though it appears to be an unproductive expense.
I have worked in Mexico and been involved with US Customs laws and the hidden costs of importation and legal compliance. I have traveled to Canada and China to view and understand foreign costs and the international impact of foreign production.
Granted, manufacturing is different than other private sectors like an advertising agency or working at Home Depot, but I never regretted it.
The most important benefit was to think three steps ahead. What does this financial decision mean "Down the Road?" It might seem Ok in the short term, but can be costly to the company later on (a good trait to develop no matter what you do.)
Zhuorui, I suggest you search out your desires. Do you like structure and get handed assignments? Are you a team player or prefer to work alone? Can you set your own goals or are more structured and want/need to follow guidelines or procedures? Asking yourself these questions may help guide you in a decision.
Good luck, Zhuorui. Let me know if you might have any specific questions.
Harry Clapeck
Thank you for the advice, Harry.
Zaroon
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Zhuorui, you should know that choosing between a career in public accounting and industry accounting, particularly in roles like financial analysis, is a pivotal decision that requires careful consideration of both the short-term and long-term implications for your career. Both paths offer distinct advantages and challenges, and understanding these can help you make a more informed choice based on your interests, skill set, and long-term career goals.
Public accounting, particularly for those studying for the CPA, provides a robust foundation in a wide range of accounting disciplines. One of the main pros is the opportunity to gain exposure to diverse industries and clients, which can greatly expand your skill set and broaden your professional network. Public accounting firms typically offer structured training and mentorship programs, especially in the early years, allowing you to learn quickly. Additionally, the prestige and credibility associated with large public accounting firms, like the Big Four, can open doors to high-level opportunities both within the firm and in the broader accounting profession. The exposure to various financial statements, audits, tax services, and advisory work helps build a strong technical skill base, which is highly transferable. However, the cons of public accounting are also significant. The work-life balance can be challenging, especially during peak seasons (e.g., tax season or year-end audits), with long hours and tight deadlines being the norm. The hierarchical structure in public accounting can also be limiting at times, with junior professionals handling routine tasks while more senior members focus on higher-level responsibilities. The pressure to bill clients and meet targets can lead to stress, which might not align with everyone’s work-life preferences.
On the other hand, Zhuorui, working in industry accounting or corporate finance, such as within a corporation or bank, can offer a different set of benefits. In corporate finance roles, such as financial analysis, you are often more focused on strategic decision-making, budgeting, forecasting, and internal financial management, which can provide a more direct impact on the company’s growth and financial health. The work tends to be more stable with fewer fluctuations in workload compared to public accounting, as it doesn’t follow the cyclical nature of tax seasons or audits. The environment is often more collaborative, with opportunities to build long-term relationships within a single company or industry. Moreover, the work-life balance can be more favorable, as corporate roles generally involve more predictable hours. However, the trade-off is that you may have less exposure to different industries or clients, which could limit the breadth of your experience. The financial analysis work may also focus more on internal reporting and may not provide as wide a variety of tasks or the level of technical complexity found in public accounting, especially if your interests align with auditing or tax services. Furthermore, advancing in corporate finance often requires gaining experience and slowly moving up within the organization, which can be slower and less structured compared to the merit-based progression in public accounting firms.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal interests and career aspirations. If you enjoy variety, working with multiple clients, and a fast-paced, challenging environment, public accounting might be the right choice. However, if you value stability, a closer connection to a single organization, and a focus on strategic financial management, corporate finance or banking could be a better fit. In terms of long-term career goals, public accounting can offer broader opportunities in terms of mobility, especially if you plan to pursue a senior-level role in finance or consulting. On the other hand, industry roles often provide a clearer trajectory for those who prefer a deeper, more specialized role within a particular industry or organization. By considering your strengths, preferences, and the lifestyle you want to maintain, you can make an informed decision that aligns with both your professional interests and your long-term career objectives.
Public accounting, particularly for those studying for the CPA, provides a robust foundation in a wide range of accounting disciplines. One of the main pros is the opportunity to gain exposure to diverse industries and clients, which can greatly expand your skill set and broaden your professional network. Public accounting firms typically offer structured training and mentorship programs, especially in the early years, allowing you to learn quickly. Additionally, the prestige and credibility associated with large public accounting firms, like the Big Four, can open doors to high-level opportunities both within the firm and in the broader accounting profession. The exposure to various financial statements, audits, tax services, and advisory work helps build a strong technical skill base, which is highly transferable. However, the cons of public accounting are also significant. The work-life balance can be challenging, especially during peak seasons (e.g., tax season or year-end audits), with long hours and tight deadlines being the norm. The hierarchical structure in public accounting can also be limiting at times, with junior professionals handling routine tasks while more senior members focus on higher-level responsibilities. The pressure to bill clients and meet targets can lead to stress, which might not align with everyone’s work-life preferences.
On the other hand, Zhuorui, working in industry accounting or corporate finance, such as within a corporation or bank, can offer a different set of benefits. In corporate finance roles, such as financial analysis, you are often more focused on strategic decision-making, budgeting, forecasting, and internal financial management, which can provide a more direct impact on the company’s growth and financial health. The work tends to be more stable with fewer fluctuations in workload compared to public accounting, as it doesn’t follow the cyclical nature of tax seasons or audits. The environment is often more collaborative, with opportunities to build long-term relationships within a single company or industry. Moreover, the work-life balance can be more favorable, as corporate roles generally involve more predictable hours. However, the trade-off is that you may have less exposure to different industries or clients, which could limit the breadth of your experience. The financial analysis work may also focus more on internal reporting and may not provide as wide a variety of tasks or the level of technical complexity found in public accounting, especially if your interests align with auditing or tax services. Furthermore, advancing in corporate finance often requires gaining experience and slowly moving up within the organization, which can be slower and less structured compared to the merit-based progression in public accounting firms.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal interests and career aspirations. If you enjoy variety, working with multiple clients, and a fast-paced, challenging environment, public accounting might be the right choice. However, if you value stability, a closer connection to a single organization, and a focus on strategic financial management, corporate finance or banking could be a better fit. In terms of long-term career goals, public accounting can offer broader opportunities in terms of mobility, especially if you plan to pursue a senior-level role in finance or consulting. On the other hand, industry roles often provide a clearer trajectory for those who prefer a deeper, more specialized role within a particular industry or organization. By considering your strengths, preferences, and the lifestyle you want to maintain, you can make an informed decision that aligns with both your professional interests and your long-term career objectives.
Thank you so much!
Zaroon
Updated
Zachary’s Answer
I agree with everything Dr. H has said, and I have a few additional insights. Public accounting also offers professional structure as the public accounting firms significantly invest in the training of their employees. This helps you to build skills in task management, executive presence, time management and even just how to organize a workpaper. These skills are so essential and valued in the industry world. This is why many industry management position job postings require (or recommend) public accounting experience. There is a known understanding of the type of skills a person has if they’ve worked in public accounting. However, there is a cost and that cost is work-life balance. Public accounting firms are notorious about having extremely high turnover rates because of the work hours.
There are definitely pros and cons to each and a decision is very personal based on where you see your career trajectory and your personal values. I know that seems like a lot to think about all at once in just trying to choose a job out of college! If it helps, I know people who have made either decision and both have had successful careers. I also know people in both categories who would probably say one or the other wasn’t worth it.
If I were to “do it again,” I’d still choose to go into public accounting despite knowing the sacrifices made because I can see how many doors were opened up by that experience. Hindsight is always 20/20…and probably biased too.
There are definitely pros and cons to each and a decision is very personal based on where you see your career trajectory and your personal values. I know that seems like a lot to think about all at once in just trying to choose a job out of college! If it helps, I know people who have made either decision and both have had successful careers. I also know people in both categories who would probably say one or the other wasn’t worth it.
If I were to “do it again,” I’d still choose to go into public accounting despite knowing the sacrifices made because I can see how many doors were opened up by that experience. Hindsight is always 20/20…and probably biased too.
Thank you for the advice, Zachary.
Zaroon
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
I can only speak to Public accounting but can offer some insight here:
Pros:
-Pay/benefits for entry level are usually above industry. Most public accounting will have additional benefits outside of the typical health/financial (i.e. staff recognition programs, potential for travel internationally/domestically, sabbaticals etc)
-Experience gained is highly regarded by industry/non-public accounting jobs. I've heard from non-public accounting companies, "every year in public accounting is like 3 in industry."
-Excellent opportunity to network with professionals inside/outside of your direct team; often times you stay connected with "alum" after they leave the firm.
-Reinvestment in employees - public accounting firms invest a lot of money on training up their employees.
-Opportunity to work on big-name clients or important projects that may be newsworthy
Cons:
-Work/life balance is typically a struggle. Most PA firms expect long hours, responsibilities in addition to client work, tight deadlines, and responding quickly to client demands.
-The work can become tedious year over year, though there may be opportunity to switch clients/teams to keep work feeling fresh
-Stress can mount quickly
-The sheer amount of information from clients & internal can be very overwhelming. Definitely requires a level of note-taking/organization to be successful.
Pros:
-Pay/benefits for entry level are usually above industry. Most public accounting will have additional benefits outside of the typical health/financial (i.e. staff recognition programs, potential for travel internationally/domestically, sabbaticals etc)
-Experience gained is highly regarded by industry/non-public accounting jobs. I've heard from non-public accounting companies, "every year in public accounting is like 3 in industry."
-Excellent opportunity to network with professionals inside/outside of your direct team; often times you stay connected with "alum" after they leave the firm.
-Reinvestment in employees - public accounting firms invest a lot of money on training up their employees.
-Opportunity to work on big-name clients or important projects that may be newsworthy
Cons:
-Work/life balance is typically a struggle. Most PA firms expect long hours, responsibilities in addition to client work, tight deadlines, and responding quickly to client demands.
-The work can become tedious year over year, though there may be opportunity to switch clients/teams to keep work feeling fresh
-Stress can mount quickly
-The sheer amount of information from clients & internal can be very overwhelming. Definitely requires a level of note-taking/organization to be successful.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1210
Answers
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hey Zhuorui,
Let me also add to the answers from others. Public accounting and industry (corporate) accounting both have their own advantages and challenges, so your decision will depend on what you value most in a career.
Public accounting (such as working for firms like the Big 4 or mid-sized firms) is a great way to gain broad experience and a CPA certification, which can open many doors in finance and accounting. You’ll work with multiple clients across different industries, giving you exposure to auditing, tax, and advisory services. This experience helps you build strong technical skills, a solid professional network, and career flexibility. However, public accounting is known for long hours, high pressure, and a demanding workload, especially during busy seasons. Many professionals gain a few years of experience in public accounting and then transition into corporate roles with a strong resume.
Then for industry accounting (corporate finance, financial analysis, or banking roles), this allows you to focus on one company rather than juggling multiple clients. You’ll get to understand a business in-depth, work on financial strategy, and possibly have a better work-life balance than in public accounting. The downside is that career progression might be slower compared to public accounting, and some roles might not require CPA certification, which could limit future mobility in certain fields.
To decide which path is best for you, consider what excites you more, problem-solving and working with different clients in a fast-paced environment (public accounting) or analyzing and improving a single company’s financial health (corporate finance). If you’re still unsure, starting in public accounting can give you strong foundational experience before transitioning to a corporate role later. But if you already know you prefer strategic finance and deeper involvement in a company’s growth, industry roles like financial analysis or banking might be a better fit.
No matter which path you take, you’re setting yourself up for a strong career in accounting and finance. Keep exploring, ask professionals in both fields about their experiences, and trust that whatever you choose, you can always pivot if needed.
Best wishes!
Let me also add to the answers from others. Public accounting and industry (corporate) accounting both have their own advantages and challenges, so your decision will depend on what you value most in a career.
Public accounting (such as working for firms like the Big 4 or mid-sized firms) is a great way to gain broad experience and a CPA certification, which can open many doors in finance and accounting. You’ll work with multiple clients across different industries, giving you exposure to auditing, tax, and advisory services. This experience helps you build strong technical skills, a solid professional network, and career flexibility. However, public accounting is known for long hours, high pressure, and a demanding workload, especially during busy seasons. Many professionals gain a few years of experience in public accounting and then transition into corporate roles with a strong resume.
Then for industry accounting (corporate finance, financial analysis, or banking roles), this allows you to focus on one company rather than juggling multiple clients. You’ll get to understand a business in-depth, work on financial strategy, and possibly have a better work-life balance than in public accounting. The downside is that career progression might be slower compared to public accounting, and some roles might not require CPA certification, which could limit future mobility in certain fields.
To decide which path is best for you, consider what excites you more, problem-solving and working with different clients in a fast-paced environment (public accounting) or analyzing and improving a single company’s financial health (corporate finance). If you’re still unsure, starting in public accounting can give you strong foundational experience before transitioning to a corporate role later. But if you already know you prefer strategic finance and deeper involvement in a company’s growth, industry roles like financial analysis or banking might be a better fit.
No matter which path you take, you’re setting yourself up for a strong career in accounting and finance. Keep exploring, ask professionals in both fields about their experiences, and trust that whatever you choose, you can always pivot if needed.
Best wishes!
Updated
Zach’s Answer
Hi Zhuorui, I am an auditor in public accounting and will give you what I believe to be the biggest pros and cons in public accounting. To start with the pros, I feel I am always learning something new. Within public accounting, especially starting out, I feel you are always working on something new and learning something new. However, even as you advance in a firm there are always new opportunities that arise that still allow you to continue to learn. Also, I personally feel that the amount I learned through public accounting helped me when taking the CPA exam. As far as the cons, I would say the biggest would be the hours. During busy season, there are definitely long hours. However, from my experience I feel outside of busy season there are great opportunities for your own personal well being to take time off.
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Hi Zhuorui,
I was in your shoes when I was in school, trying to figure out the best path. You're doing great by asking the right questions. Here's a simple look at the pros and cons of public accounting:
Public Accounting
Pros:
- Fast-paced environment
- Experience in different industries
- Well-known companies (like Big 4)
- Good networking opportunities
Cons:
- Long working hours
- Work can feel boring
- Higher-level pay is usually less than average
When comparing public accounting to corporate finance or banking, the pros and cons are quite similar. However, accounting often offers more job stability and availability, while finance or banking usually pays more. Don't stress too much about making the perfect choice right now. Try what interests you, and remember you can always change paths if needed. There's no rush to decide everything at once.
I was in your shoes when I was in school, trying to figure out the best path. You're doing great by asking the right questions. Here's a simple look at the pros and cons of public accounting:
Public Accounting
Pros:
- Fast-paced environment
- Experience in different industries
- Well-known companies (like Big 4)
- Good networking opportunities
Cons:
- Long working hours
- Work can feel boring
- Higher-level pay is usually less than average
When comparing public accounting to corporate finance or banking, the pros and cons are quite similar. However, accounting often offers more job stability and availability, while finance or banking usually pays more. Don't stress too much about making the perfect choice right now. Try what interests you, and remember you can always change paths if needed. There's no rush to decide everything at once.
Updated
Heel’s Answer
Here's some advice: If you're unsure where to start, consider beginning in public accounting, especially if you're aiming to become a CPA. It helps you build strong technical skills, gain industry experience, and keeps many career options open. After 2-3 years, many professionals find great opportunities in fields like private equity and finance.
However, if work-life balance or a passion for a specific company or industry is more important to you, starting directly in the industry might be a better fit. Just make sure you're still developing your skills and working towards long-term goals like earning a CPA, CMA, or MBA.
However, if work-life balance or a passion for a specific company or industry is more important to you, starting directly in the industry might be a better fit. Just make sure you're still developing your skills and working towards long-term goals like earning a CPA, CMA, or MBA.
Updated
Luya’s Answer
Hi Zhuorui,
I completely agree with Levi's answer above, as I also chose a path in public accounting. One great thing to consider is that public accounting firms often provide more resources for preparing for the CPA exam. Starting your career in public accounting can be a smart move if you're planning to get your CPA certification later on. It's also a fantastic choice for those who love working in teams. I recommend trying out internships in your areas of interest to get a real feel for what working in that field is like.
I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck!
I completely agree with Levi's answer above, as I also chose a path in public accounting. One great thing to consider is that public accounting firms often provide more resources for preparing for the CPA exam. Starting your career in public accounting can be a smart move if you're planning to get your CPA certification later on. It's also a fantastic choice for those who love working in teams. I recommend trying out internships in your areas of interest to get a real feel for what working in that field is like.
I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck!
Updated
Brad’s Answer
Hi Chinyere,
You’ve asked a fantastic question! I spent 5 years in Public Accounting before moving to industry, and I learned so much during that exciting time. While the long hours in public accounting can be tough, the experience is invaluable. Here are a couple of things to consider:
1. Do you want to become a CPA? You can achieve this without working in public accounting, but the experience is different.
2. Are you ready to handle long hours and work under pressure with tight deadlines?
No matter what you decide, you’re on the right path and have a bright career ahead. Best of luck!
You’ve asked a fantastic question! I spent 5 years in Public Accounting before moving to industry, and I learned so much during that exciting time. While the long hours in public accounting can be tough, the experience is invaluable. Here are a couple of things to consider:
1. Do you want to become a CPA? You can achieve this without working in public accounting, but the experience is different.
2. Are you ready to handle long hours and work under pressure with tight deadlines?
No matter what you decide, you’re on the right path and have a bright career ahead. Best of luck!
Updated
John’s Answer
Industry accounting professionals enjoy stable schedules and gain deep insights into a single company’s financial operations, making them experts in internal processes and long-term planning. However, their exposure to different industries and complex financial scenarios is often limited.
Public accountants, on the other hand, work with multiple clients across sectors, which helps them build a strong technical foundation and expand their professional network. The downside is the demanding workload and longer hours, especially during audit or tax seasons.
Both career paths offer valuable experiences depending on one’s goals—whether it’s mastering one business or gaining diverse financial expertise. For deeper insights into accounting practices and financial management trends, you can explore resources shared by The Ledger Labs:-https://www.theledgerlabs.com/
Public accountants, on the other hand, work with multiple clients across sectors, which helps them build a strong technical foundation and expand their professional network. The downside is the demanding workload and longer hours, especially during audit or tax seasons.
Both career paths offer valuable experiences depending on one’s goals—whether it’s mastering one business or gaining diverse financial expertise. For deeper insights into accounting practices and financial management trends, you can explore resources shared by The Ledger Labs:-https://www.theledgerlabs.com/
Updated
Levi’s Answer
Hi Zhuorui,
I too remember this type of decision when I was studying accounting. A lot of students are faced with the opportunity to either work in public accounting (Primarily Big 4 or mid-sized firms) or go work in the private industry. I personally chose to work in the public accounting for PwC. As many people have mentioned already, in public accounting, you tend to focus on a variety of different clients where you begin to learn broad knowledge of multiple industries and technical concepts. In public accounting, you can experience quick career growth and progression at a potentially faster rate than working private. Outside of your career, most Big 4 firms offer opportunities outside of work such as volunteering and team events which are great opportunities to give back to your community and build team morale. There are a lot of sectors to work in for public accounting and if you pick a field, you are not stuck there if you end up not liking it after giving it your best effort. While many will say working in public accounting is demanding and consists of long hours, which is definitely true to some degree, you will gain a lot of experience due to the exposure which can be very beneficial for your career path later down the road and may even open up new doors. You can also build a great sense of camaraderie with you team!
I cannot say much on working in industry as I do not have any experience personally, but others have posted some great information pertaining to industry. I would ask yourself what your values are when working and what some long-term goals are to help align yourself to your path. Remember, no decision is permanent! You are setting yourself on a great career path regardless!
I too remember this type of decision when I was studying accounting. A lot of students are faced with the opportunity to either work in public accounting (Primarily Big 4 or mid-sized firms) or go work in the private industry. I personally chose to work in the public accounting for PwC. As many people have mentioned already, in public accounting, you tend to focus on a variety of different clients where you begin to learn broad knowledge of multiple industries and technical concepts. In public accounting, you can experience quick career growth and progression at a potentially faster rate than working private. Outside of your career, most Big 4 firms offer opportunities outside of work such as volunteering and team events which are great opportunities to give back to your community and build team morale. There are a lot of sectors to work in for public accounting and if you pick a field, you are not stuck there if you end up not liking it after giving it your best effort. While many will say working in public accounting is demanding and consists of long hours, which is definitely true to some degree, you will gain a lot of experience due to the exposure which can be very beneficial for your career path later down the road and may even open up new doors. You can also build a great sense of camaraderie with you team!
I cannot say much on working in industry as I do not have any experience personally, but others have posted some great information pertaining to industry. I would ask yourself what your values are when working and what some long-term goals are to help align yourself to your path. Remember, no decision is permanent! You are setting yourself on a great career path regardless!
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Zhuorui
That's a smart question! Both public accounting and industry (corporate finance) have distinct pros and cons, and the best path depends on your long-term goals and work preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you weigh your options:
**Public Accounting (CPA)**
**Pros:**
✅ **Strong Career Foundation:** Working at a Big 4 or mid-tier firm builds solid technical expertise in accounting, audit, and tax.
✅ **High Marketability:** CPA credentials and public accounting experience are highly valued across industries.
✅ **Networking:** Exposure to various industries and clients helps you build a broad professional network.
✅ **Career Growth:** Fast upward mobility, with opportunities to become a manager or partner in a relatively short time.
✅ **Exit Opportunities:** After a few years in public accounting, you can transition into corporate roles, consulting, or even executive leadership.
**Cons:**
❌ **Work-Life Balance:** Busy seasons (especially in audit and tax) can mean long hours and high stress.
❌ **Repetitive Work:** Audit and tax work can become routine over time.
❌ **Client Pressure:** Meeting client deadlines and handling complex issues can be stressful.
**Industry Accounting (Corporate Finance/Banking)**
**Pros:**
✅ **Specialization:** You’ll gain deep expertise in financial analysis, forecasting, budgeting, and internal controls.
✅ **Work-Life Balance:** Corporate roles often offer more stable hours compared to public accounting.
✅ **Strategic Impact:** You’ll contribute to business decisions and have a direct impact on the company’s performance.
✅ **Compensation:** Corporate finance and banking roles often offer competitive base salaries and performance-based bonuses.
**Cons:**
❌ **Slower Career Progression:** Promotions in corporate settings can take longer compared to public accounting.
❌ **Limited Exposure:** You may only work within one industry or business model, limiting the breadth of your experience.
❌ **Less Prestige:** A CPA background from public accounting tends to carry more industry recognition early in your career.
**How to Decide:**
👉 If you value **breadth of experience**, professional growth, and networking, public accounting (especially at a Big 4 firm) is a strong starting point.
👉 If you prefer **stability, work-life balance**, and focusing on strategic business decisions, corporate finance or banking might suit you better.
👉 Many professionals start in public accounting, earn their CPA, and then transition into corporate finance — giving them both breadth and depth of experience.
That's a smart question! Both public accounting and industry (corporate finance) have distinct pros and cons, and the best path depends on your long-term goals and work preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you weigh your options:
**Public Accounting (CPA)**
**Pros:**
✅ **Strong Career Foundation:** Working at a Big 4 or mid-tier firm builds solid technical expertise in accounting, audit, and tax.
✅ **High Marketability:** CPA credentials and public accounting experience are highly valued across industries.
✅ **Networking:** Exposure to various industries and clients helps you build a broad professional network.
✅ **Career Growth:** Fast upward mobility, with opportunities to become a manager or partner in a relatively short time.
✅ **Exit Opportunities:** After a few years in public accounting, you can transition into corporate roles, consulting, or even executive leadership.
**Cons:**
❌ **Work-Life Balance:** Busy seasons (especially in audit and tax) can mean long hours and high stress.
❌ **Repetitive Work:** Audit and tax work can become routine over time.
❌ **Client Pressure:** Meeting client deadlines and handling complex issues can be stressful.
**Industry Accounting (Corporate Finance/Banking)**
**Pros:**
✅ **Specialization:** You’ll gain deep expertise in financial analysis, forecasting, budgeting, and internal controls.
✅ **Work-Life Balance:** Corporate roles often offer more stable hours compared to public accounting.
✅ **Strategic Impact:** You’ll contribute to business decisions and have a direct impact on the company’s performance.
✅ **Compensation:** Corporate finance and banking roles often offer competitive base salaries and performance-based bonuses.
**Cons:**
❌ **Slower Career Progression:** Promotions in corporate settings can take longer compared to public accounting.
❌ **Limited Exposure:** You may only work within one industry or business model, limiting the breadth of your experience.
❌ **Less Prestige:** A CPA background from public accounting tends to carry more industry recognition early in your career.
**How to Decide:**
👉 If you value **breadth of experience**, professional growth, and networking, public accounting (especially at a Big 4 firm) is a strong starting point.
👉 If you prefer **stability, work-life balance**, and focusing on strategic business decisions, corporate finance or banking might suit you better.
👉 Many professionals start in public accounting, earn their CPA, and then transition into corporate finance — giving them both breadth and depth of experience.