When I came from Cleveland, OH to go to Xavier University, I knew I wanted to study accounting. But just like most other accounting students, I didn't know whether I wanted to work for one of the Big Four or a local firm, much less whether I was interested in audit or tax. Fortunately JRS & Co. made both of these decisions rather easy for me!
I had an internship with a Big Four firm during college, which was a good experience, but it was too big for my taste; I felt like I was just another face in the crowd. So, I knew that I wanted to interview with local firms when I was ready to look for full-time employment. The offers I received after interviewing with several local firms were very similar in terms of salary, benefits, etc., but deciding on JRS was simple. When I visited the office, the people were so friendly and made me feel like I was already part of the team. They were professional but laid back, and I knew JRS would be a great fit for me.
Since I started, JRS has exceeded my expectations by providing me with an exceptional first year of experience. What sets JRS apart from every other firm is their unique shared-staff program for all first year staff accountants. This program lets you work with both the audit department and tax department for a full year, giving you the "big picture" of accounting and enabling you to make an informed decision before committing to either tax or audit.
With the audit department, you will perform audit and review services both in the office and out in the field. You may also work on consulting engagements or perform compilations of financial statements. With the tax department, you will be responsible for preparing tax returns for all types of clients - individuals, corporations, partnerships, and trusts to name a few. You will also perform tax planning services and research various tax issues.
The assignments described above are exciting, although trying to grasp new concepts and having to switch modes is also challenging. Don't worry - you will never feel "crunched" or overwhelmed; JRS has an extremely supportive culture for their first-year accountants. JRS is committed to providing its employees with a comprehensive in-house continuing education program. Besides the new employee orientation, you will attend numerous "Lunch and Learn" programs and all-day training events throughout your first year. These programs provide you with background information on the latest tax issues and current accounting standards and provide a forum for discussing how these issues will impact JRS and our clients.
As you work your way through various projects and training sessions, the staff at JRS will be there to help you every step of the way. You will immediately find that the entire staff, from the other Staff Accountants to the Partner Group, is extremely approachable and ready to answer any questions you may have. You will be assigned a "Direct Report," typically a Manager or Supervisor, who will ensure that you see a variety of assignments during your first year and help you set goals for your first year and beyond.
Up to this point I have emphasized the personal and professional development that JRS encourages, and now I will wrap-up by telling you that my favorite part about working at JRS is knowing that I am part of a team of professionals that is committed to bringing the highest level of service and success to its clients. As I began my professional career, I knew that I wanted to be proud of the company and team of professionals that I joined, and I could not be more proud to be a part of the JRS team.
