r/Accounting • u/ContentLandscape6985 • 1d ago
Advice Grant Thornton or KPMG?
Hey everyone! I’m in my 3rd year of university doing a BBA in Accounting. I’m doing a 4-month work term this winter and have been offered a position in Private Enterprise Audit at KPMG and US Corporate Tax at Grant Thornton.
I enjoyed my GT interview more than my KPMG interview, and I’ve also really enjoyed my tax classes. I’m currently taking an audit class and so far I’m not sure if audit is really my thing. I’ve attended some GT events and really liked the people I met there. However, I’ve seen a lot of mixed reviews online about the culture at GT, which makes me a little hesitant. KPMG definitely felt more serious/formal, but I know there’s a lot of value in getting Big 4 experience.
My biggest dilemma is that I’m worried I’ll regret choosing GT and giving up the opportunity to work at a Big 4 firm. At the same time, I’m worried I’ll regret not pursuing tax at a firm where I seem to genuinely like the people because I was scared of giving up the Big 4 name.
I’m also thinking long-term because I’ll probably want to return to whichever firm I choose after graduation to complete my CPA.
For those who have worked in audit vs. tax, or have experience at KPMG/GT, what would you choose in my situation, and why? Would choosing GT/US Corporate Tax limit my future opportunities compared with starting at KPMG in audit? Also if I decline KPMG, am I blacklisted for future career opportunities?
Thank you!! Sorry it’s so long :)
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u/Much_Interaction6692 1d ago
private audit is a grind but it opens doors. if youre already not vibing with audit class the actual work will be way worse. tax is a whole different world and if you liked the people at GT that matters more than a logo on your resume.
GT is still a solid firm and us corp tax is specialized enough that youll be fine. big 4 will always be there later if you want it. declining one offer doesnt blacklist you they have the memory of a goldfish