Navigating the Job Hunt After Graduation: Seeking Advice for a Bright Future

Hello, everyone!

Today marks a significant milestone for me—I’ve officially graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Accounting! As I embark on this new chapter of my life at the age of 22, I felt it was the perfect moment to reach out to you all and gather some insights for my upcoming job search.

Looking ahead, I’ve decided to begin my job applications in mid to late June. First, I’ll be taking a short break to visit family—I haven’t seen them in quite a while. Once I return, my plan is to start applying for Accounting positions nearby. My first thought is to target opportunities at my local parish in Louisiana, considering my sister’s connections in the public school system may give me a beneficial edge. Alternatively, I’m also considering advancing my career at Walmart, where I’ve been employed for nearly five years, by moving from the sales floor to an office role.

This leads me to seek your thoughts on my strategy: Does it seem sound? Given that my experience in the field is limited—having only completed one interview for an internship in October 2022—I’m eager to hear your advice. Should I apply to a wide variety of Accounting roles, including internships and part-time positions, provided I meet the eligibility criteria?

I graduated with a GPA of 3.1, which isn’t remarkable, and I haven’t had formal internships or accolades during my studies. My work history primarily revolves around my time at Walmart, and I’m concerned this might complicate my search. What can I realistically expect in terms of an entry-level salary, and what should I ask for when negotiating? Moreover, without extracurricular activities or internship experiences, how can I enhance my resume and interview performance to effectively showcase my qualifications?

I’ve gathered feedback from this subreddit and my professors, who affirm that in the world of accounting, securing a position is often achievable with just a bachelor’s degree. They argue that any job I take—even if it isn’t ideal—can pave the way for career advancement. Plus, I’m in a good position regarding the CPA exam requirements, as I already meet the 150 credit hours necessary thanks to my minor in Spanish and additional credits from CLEP exams and other coursework. Is this perspective accurate?

I appreciate your patience with my lengthy post, and I welcome any advice or insights you might have. Every suggestion will be taken to heart as I navigate this crucial transition in