This is what I hate about the new CPA designation. It's using the old CGA advertising approach to lure unsuspecting students like OP into an expensive program without tangible prospect of a job afterwards. It's an exit strategy for those who could not get into the CA program.
The truth is, OP, without public practice experience, your chances of moving up in the corporate ladder in industry is lower than those who had. Most of the management level people in bigger companies who I deal with are ex public practice. I think you really need to think long and hard about what you want to. Yes, the first few years in a public practice firm is going to suck. But at the same time it will open many doors for you. But DO NOT go through the entire PEP program and write the CFE without getting an employer who will back you up. You will just end up wasting your money and time. Good luck.
The truth is, OP, without public practice experience, your chances of moving up in the corporate ladder in industry is lower than those who had. Most of the management level people in bigger companies who I deal with are ex public practice. I think you really need to think long and hard about what you want to. Yes, the first few years in a public practice firm is going to suck. But at the same time it will open many doors for you. But DO NOT go through the entire PEP program and write the CFE without getting an employer who will back you up. You will just end up wasting your money and time. Good luck.