Advice for junior accounting major looking to go straight into private?

what can I do these next two years to maximize my chances of finding a job in industry upon graduating?

Basically the same stuff as public. Network, go to events, etc.

Should I consider joining Beta Alpha Psi? Would it be worth my time?

Yes. Not necessary but it's good for networking.

And how important is it to do an internship? Would employers even consider hiring me after graduation with no internship?

It's important. Most places, public or industry, use internship programs to vet potential new hires. That being said it is not a requirement. You'll want to try to do an internship, but it's not the end of the world if you don't.

Also, should I still consider getting my CPA for down the road even if I don't want to work at a public accounting firm working insane hours?

I am aware the pay will be lower

I'm grouping these two questions together because sometimes there's a bit of misunderstanding when it comes to "industry" for accountants. Public is going to be audit/tax at firms doing very similar things, but industry is "everything else". Meaning it's very diverse in terms of companies, actual jobs worked, and opportunities. Some companies will see you as a data entry drone and pay you accordingly. Other companies will offer you as good of or better opportunities than public. Your career "path" is much, much less standardized in industry.

Those who tend to go industry, then stagnate in a position with no growth, typically are doing so by their own decision making. By not networking, putting in extra hours to help the team, or making any real effort to grow, including avoiding the CPA among other things. If you do this in public you're much more likely to be coached out. In industry they'll just let you sit at a staff desk for 7 years. I always recommend getting your CPA, if you stay hungry you can reasonably expect to do comparable to those with public experience.

Disclaimer: I started in industry as well, so call me biased. The CEO of the last F500 I worked for started as a staff accountant at that same company, and feel I've been given the same opportunity at both places I've worked compared to those who were hired from public.

/r/Accounting Thread