Hi -- something I can actually speak to (rather than simply ask about). I've tried to bullet my answers to keep this streamlined, but feel free to ask anything else if I haven't covered it.
PROGRAM
Top Tier Catholic University in the Midwest (hint: think "Jesus" and "Touchdowns")
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Create an organized study plan from the very first day of class. It's a one-year program. If you get behind, you'll find it very hard to catch up. Find a reliable (<< emphasis) study group as soon as you can -- only hang out with the goofoffs during parties.
- Have *very* good rapport with your professors. Be proactive -- ask questions in class, and ask some more during their study hours. USE their study hours -- sooo underutilized! But respect their intelligence too -- make sure you exhaust all options at your disposal before asking them a question so it's actually interesting and worth their time to answer. They'll be impressed by really well thought out questions too (recommendations anyone?).
- Do your work on time. It will be tempting to enjoy the college life, and maybe kicking back on Friday is fine. But do all your assignments with your full attention and come to class prepared.
- This really is Grad school, not another year of undergrad. A "B" is average, an "A" is above average. Your classmates will be smarter than in UG. You'll have to compete to be noticed. Don't let yourself get left in the shuffle. Be your own advocate for your own career. For example, start networking with alumni / potential employers through professional meet-n-greets, professional fairs, visits to clubs, etc as much as you can.
- If you can, start studying for the CPA during your year. In some states that's possible, in others not so much, so you have to do some research. If you have over 150 hours already, then you have no time to waste. You'll be able to get a better score with the material drilled into your head in class anyway -- why not take advantage? (I can post my 2 cents for CPA test advice in another post if anyone's interested.)
ALLOCATION
Study -- Put *at least* 30% of your time here. Bare minimum. After all, that's what you're here for. And that'll also determine where you end up (coming soon).
Class -- It is what it is. Probably 15-20% of your time.
Interviews -- It also is what it is. But it will heavily depend on GPA (at least as far as Big 4 are concerned), so see above two.
PT Jobs -- This depends on many factors, but limit it as much as you can. Best job = TA or tutor for undergrad classes if you can get it -- easy way to keep the material fresh for you too.
Fun -- The remainder of your time. Do sparingly but leave time for it. Friday nights were my time. But you might work differently. Just be careful with this one.
Feel free to PM or ask any other questions you may have. Hope this helps!