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Nadir
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Accounting going to MBA? 28 May 2015, 16:38
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Hi everybody,

I'm just trying to figure out exactly how to approach all of this. I'm currently in an accounting undergrad program and plan to get a MAcc, get the CPA cert, then go big 4 audit for 3-4 years, leave that, and go to a top 5 MBA program. What I'm wondering is how an accounting undergrad and background will affect that? Most accountants seem to want to go the controller/CFO route, but I'm trying to gear it more towards the non-financial management parts of a business. Do the top 5 programs routinely take accountants?

Thanks.
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go2school
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Accounting going to MBA? 28 May 2015, 18:56
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Hi,
I have a background very similar to what you are asking about :). I will be heading to a top program but not top 5... It was an uphill battle with accounting experience.. top 5 I imagine would be even harder. I would suggest you take a leadership role in a club in school NOW. When you get to big 4 take on something with them such as ( I didn't do this but wish I did) associate ambassador. I don't know what it will be called at your firm but essentially: a current associate who confidentially listens to other associate's complaints then discusses them with partners quarterly or so. Volunteer outside of work. Have very clear career goals. Why an MBA? How does an MBA get you from senior associate (if you make it 3 years..) to xyz career goal. I'd be happy to answer more privately.
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kple12
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Accounting going to MBA? 29 May 2015, 14:52
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Similar background as well.

Accountants are dime a dozen in the applicant pool so you have to stand out. Leadership positions are a must and you have to really do your research on schools and have stellar essays. Honestly right now it is WAY too early for you to even think of MBA, let alone top 5, when you have not even worked a true corporate job yet I am assuming.

If you are gung ho about it, right now just NAIL the GMAT, rock the MAC program, and get the CPA. If you do that, you will satisfy the "academic" requirement needed and after that, it's about execution at the job and in leadership opportunities.
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Accounting going to MBA? 29 May 2015, 16:20
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go2school
Hi,
I have a background very similar to what you are asking about :). I will be heading to a top program but not top 5... It was an uphill battle with accounting experience.. top 5 I imagine would be even harder. I would suggest you take a leadership role in a club in school NOW. When you get to big 4 take on something with them such as ( I didn't do this but wish I did) associate ambassador. I don't know what it will be called at your firm but essentially: a current associate who confidentially listens to other associate's complaints then discusses them with partners quarterly or so. Volunteer outside of work. Have very clear career goals. Why an MBA? How does an MBA get you from senior associate (if you make it 3 years..) to xyz career goal. I'd be happy to answer more privately.
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Great advice. I'm just starting this process so haven't made it to the other side yet. But I've seen a handful of coworkers make it to top programs including M7's so it's doable. As everyone has said, you have to distinguish yourself from the crowd. There are certain preconceived notions held against us, and therefore one of your professional goals should be to disprove them with concrete experiences throughout your career. Shoot to have more examples of true leadership above and beyond what's expected (everyone makes senior after a couple years...how are you different) and examples of teamwork (can you bring out the best in your team and work with people from widely different backgrounds?). Being involved in different committees/community events helps you add to this.