Favorite Parts of Working in Accounting as an Audit Associate
Zachary, an audit associate, finds the perks— "free phone," "access to gyms"— appealing, yet feels trapped by these benefits, describing the situation as a "velvet prison." The "great exit opportunities" are what motivates Zachary, highlighting a common sentiment among professionals facing long-term commitment in such demanding roles.
Benefits, Exit Opportunities, Industry Realities, Workplace Challenges, Career Development
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Zachary Milano
Audit associate
Big 4 Accounting Firm
Cal Poly
None
Economics
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Finance
Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Good exit opportunities are available after gaining experience in the industry.
2. The job provides various benefits such as free phone plans and gym access.
3. While enjoyable, the industry can lead to long working hours and the need to constantly strive for promotions which may not always suit everyone's preferences
Transcript
What do you enjoy most about being in your industry?
I don't have the warmest answer to this question. I think the best parts about my industry are the many little benefits. For example, I have a free phone, which is nice. My phone plan is also free.
I get access to a bunch of gyms, which is nice too. Other than that, there are really good exit opportunities. But to me, all of that makes it feel like a velvet prison in a certain way.
It's really nice while you're here, but you also can't convince yourself to leave because you have all these nice benefits. People end up staying longer and longer.
There are definitely reasons to stay, and people who are really built for auditing are amazing at it. But it is tough to watch people get promoted and see that they're online longer and longer. So if auditing is really all you want to do, then sure, I guess you can stay.
But if it's not where you see yourself indefinitely, there are great exit opportunities. That's what I'm looking forward to someday.
Advizer Personal Links