From Classroom to Big Four: How to Prepare for Public Accounting Recruitment

If you are interested in accounting, you have likely heard of the Big Four: Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC. These four firms, along with other respected multinational firms, offer exceptional training, client exposure, global reach, and long-term career opportunities. Because of their prestige, earning a position at one of these firms is highly competitive.

Whether you are beginning your undergraduate studies or preparing to enter a graduate accounting program, these steps will help you stand out and capture recruiters’ attention.

Excel Academically

Strong performance in your undergraduate accounting courses is essential. Grades in business-related and quantitative courses also matter. Keep working to raise your GPA, and choose electives that build complementary skills, such as data analytics or finance.

Understand What Firms Look For

Recruiters consistently value:

• Technical proficiency: Solid understanding of GAAP, audit standards, and tax regulations
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Teamwork and leadership potential
• Work ethic and time management
• Adaptability and willingness to learn

Each firm has its own culture, but all seek adaptable, motivated professionals with these qualities.

Start Early: Recruitment Timelines

Recruiting begins early in the academic year. To prepare for internship and full-time recruiting, update your resume and LinkedIn profile before events begin.

Resume tips:

• Highlight technical skills such as Excel or Power BI proficiency
• Quantify achievements (e.g., “Analyzed financial statements for four mid-sized clients”)
• Keep it to one page with consistent formatting
• Eliminate typos and grammatical errors

LinkedIn tips:

• Use a professional headshot
• Follow firms and recruiters you meet
• Showcase relevant coursework, certifications, and internships
• Keep work experience current

In person, be punctual, prepared, and professional. Learn the dress code in advance. Develop a 30-second “elevator pitch” that introduces who you are, your academic background, your interest in the firm, and why you are a strong fit. Write it out and rehearse until it feels natural.

Master the Behavioral Interview

Public accounting interviews often focus on behavioral questions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. Expect to be asked about leadership, teamwork, challenges, deadlines, and your alignment with the firm’s values.

Examples include:

• “Tell me about a time you handled a challenging group project.”
• “Describe a situation where you had to meet a tight deadline.”
• “Why do you want to work for [Firm Name]?”

Be ready to discuss all items on your resume and think through hypothetical problem-solving scenarios. Practice through mock interviews with career services or peers.

Network Strategically

Firms prefer to hire candidates they already know. Attend on-campus presentations and coffee chats with firm representatives. Follow up with a personalized LinkedIn message or thank-you email.

Gain Internship or Part-Time Experience

If you do not yet have an internship, pursue one with a local accounting firm or business. Experience that demonstrates the following is highly valued:

• Application of accounting concepts
• Client-facing responsibilities
• Professional work environment experience

If you cannot secure an internship, even a summer job such as waiting tables can highlight your work ethic and ability to collaborate.

Plan for the CPA Exam

Even early in your studies, show commitment to earning the CPA license by:

• Expressing your intent to sit for the exam
• Understanding your state’s eligibility requirements
• Completing coursework aligned with exam content

Many firms offer bonuses and promotions for CPA completion, so demonstrating a plan strengthens your candidacy.

How the Rice MAcc Supports Your Career Goals

The Rice Master of Accounting program has strong connections with the Big Four and other major firms. Before classes begin, you will receive guidance on preparing for recruitment.

During the program, you will participate in workshops on interviewing and professional etiquette, as well as career-focused events such as Meet the Firms and the Big Four Panel. Faculty will help you master technical concepts, refine your communication, and strengthen your critical thinking skills.

In just ten months, the program’s small class size and collaborative environment will help you develop confidence and expertise quickly. No matter your undergraduate major, the Rice MAcc is a transformative step toward a rewarding career in accounting.

Does an accounting-based career sound like it’s for you? Contact us at ricemacc@rice.edu! We would love to share more information with you about the benefits of pursuing a graduate accounting degree at Rice.