Navigating the Next Steps After Graduation: Seeking Advice as a New Accounting Graduate

Hello, fellow readers!

Today marks a significant milestone in my life—I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Accounting! As a 22-year-old entering the professional world, I’ve spent years absorbing insights from this community, and now that I’ve crossed this important finish line, I’m eager to seek your guidance as I embark on my job search journey.

Crafting a Job Search Strategy

My current plan is to start applying for positions in mid to late June. This timeline coincides with a family vacation, allowing me to reconnect with relatives I haven’t seen in years. Upon my return, I intend to pursue opportunities in Accounting. One of my initial ideas is to apply at my local parish in Louisiana, leveraging my sister’s connections within the public school system. Alternatively, I may consider advancing within Walmart, where I currently work, to secure an office role instead of remaining on the sales floor.

Seeking Your Insights

I would love your feedback on this approach. I have a few pressing questions as I begin this new chapter:

1. Is it advisable to apply broadly? Should I submit applications for any entry-level accounting positions, including internships, part-time roles, or full-time jobs, provided I meet the qualifications?

2. Can GPA impact my job prospects? I graduated with a GPA of 3.1, which might not stand out, especially as I lack internships and have only my five years at Walmart as work experience. How significant will this be in my job search?

3. What salary expectations should I have? I’m curious about what starting salary to anticipate and how I can effectively negotiate it.

4. Enhancing my resume and interview presence: Given my limited extracurricular involvement and internship experience, what elements should I showcase on my resume and during interviews to strengthen my candidacy? I have the basics covered—educational background and work history—but I’d like to make my application as competitive as possible.

Leveraging My Degree for Future Success

I’ve heard from both educators and community members that in the accounting field, obtaining a degree is the crucial first step. With my bachelor’s in hand and the 150 credit hours required for CPA licensure due to my coursework (including a minor in Spanish), I’m hopeful I can gain entry into the field—even if I need to start at an entry-level position. Is this truly the pathway to building a