entry level accouting advice

[latemp]

hello everyone. i am a recent grad just getting out the military looking for an entry level position in accounting. i was hoping you guys could give me some advice on a couple questions i have about the field.

first question is, being in the military, i didnt get any accounting working experience for my resume. i've been looking in the dc area for a couple months now with no luck and most job descriptions even entry level seem to want experience. i was hoping to land something for atleast 40k, but do i need to suck it up and try to get one of those lower level pay by the hour positions?

my other question is i got actually got my degree in finance, not accounting. but i realized after the fact i would probably enjoy an accounting position more. also i finished school back in 2009, so i feel like i'm loosing all the knowledge i did have. i just bought a shuams accounting study guide to sharpen up on everything. can you guys give me some advice on what else i should study up on (in particular) if i'm looking to get an entry level position? i'm want to be prepared in case i do find something. i appreciate any help yall can give me.

 

[jvargas07]

Accounting Jobs

Apply to one of the big 4 or look for a head hunter-they are all over the DC area. Go do some auditing work. You don't need experience to start. That's how I started my career as an accountant.

 

[gtalbott]

Companies want to see at least the core accounting class required for the CPA exam. If you dont have those it might be tough to find something in Public accounting. With your military background you might want to focus on some govt contractors in the area. If you dont have any luck, I would try to get your feet wet and then start looking for the next job once you get a year of experience. It will be a little easier looking when you have a job in the industry.

 

[latemp]

Companies want to see at least the core accounting class required for the CPA exam. If you dont have those it might be tough to find something in Public accounting. With your military background you might want to focus on some govt contractors in the area. If you dont have any luck, I would try to get your feet wet and then start looking for the next job once you get a year of experience. It will be a little easier looking when you have a job in the industry.

what would you recommend for getting my feet wet? i've been considering doing that, and taking the classes part time to finish the accounting major. looks like i would only need about 6.

 

[Julius L.]

If your going to go back to school try looking for internships, some actually pay you and if your good they'll give you a decent full time job with the company.