Hey Guys,
I graduated last May from a large state institution with degrees in finance and accounting. Quickly passed the CPA and began with a Big 4 firm in October (large bank, hedge fund clients). I’ll candidly confess that finance has always been more interesting for me relative to accounting, and I certainly don’t see myself at a Big 4 firm past five years.
I’ve done some research through this site regarding the CFA exam as well as a visit to the Institute itself, and I can’t decide if it’s a jump I am willing to take. I’ve thought of preparing for the December ‘15 Level 1 around mid-to-late summer and then transitioning to a finance job following FY’15 busy season should I pass.
I’ve done a high level review of the CFA Level 1 and it is information I am very familiar with based on my CPA studies and my undergraduate degrees. I also know that Level 1 is by far the easiest one to pass.
I guess I’m curious as your thoughts regarding my situation and possible job opportunities should I pass the first level. Would it make more sense to change jobs before starting the exam process so as to have exam costs covered? Is it possible to be taken seriously for an entry analyst job as a CPA without passing any levels?
Hopelessly looking for some direction with this.
Thanks.
I graduated last May from a large state institution with degrees in finance and accounting. Quickly passed the CPA and began with a Big 4 firm in October (large bank, hedge fund clients). I’ll candidly confess that finance has always been more interesting for me relative to accounting, and I certainly don’t see myself at a Big 4 firm past five years.
I’ve done some research through this site regarding the CFA exam as well as a visit to the Institute itself, and I can’t decide if it’s a jump I am willing to take. I’ve thought of preparing for the December ‘15 Level 1 around mid-to-late summer and then transitioning to a finance job following FY’15 busy season should I pass.
I’ve done a high level review of the CFA Level 1 and it is information I am very familiar with based on my CPA studies and my undergraduate degrees. I also know that Level 1 is by far the easiest one to pass.
I guess I’m curious as your thoughts regarding my situation and possible job opportunities should I pass the first level. Would it make more sense to change jobs before starting the exam process so as to have exam costs covered? Is it possible to be taken seriously for an entry analyst job as a CPA without passing any levels?
Hopelessly looking for some direction with this.
Thanks.