Hi everyone,
I wanted to get some opinions on a big career decision I’m facing.
A little background: I have an ACCA certification and about 3 years of work experience so far — 1 year at PwC and 2 years at EY in my home country. I applied for the MEXT scholarship (a fully funded scholarship provided by the Japanese government for masters level studies) and was fortunate enough to get it.
Now I’m at a crossroads. I’ve been accepted for graduate study in Japan, with options at Waseda (MBA or MSc) and Kyoto University (MBA). Waseda is my first choice, but realistically Kyoto might happen.
Here’s my dilemma:
If I go for the master’s, I’d be leaving my current role and putting a pause on my Big 4 track. I really want to build a career in a Big 4 firm in Japan, but I’m worried about whether the break from work will affect my future prospects.
On the other hand, I could stay, finish my training at EY and later try to apply for a Big 4 role in Europe instead.
The lifestyle aspect of Japan really appeals to me, but I want to be practical too. Has anyone here taken a similar path — moving to Japan for grad school and then transitioning into Big 4 or a similar career? Do you think the MBA/MSc route at Waseda or Kyoto is a smart move, or would I be better off staying on my current path?
Would love to hear your thoughts!
by Any-Connection-6992