Graduating with a Degree in Accounting: Seeking Insights for My Career Journey

Hello, readers!

Today marks a significant milestone in my life as I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Accounting. At 22 years old, I’ve spent the last few years absorbing knowledge, and now it’s time to put that education to use. As I embark on my quest for my first Accounting position, I’d love to gather some valuable insights from this community.

A Thoughtful Career Strategy

My current plan is to begin applying for full-time positions in mid to late June. I have a family vacation scheduled for early June, during which I’ll be reconnecting with relatives I haven’t seen in quite some time. Upon my return, I’m looking to kick off my job search. I’m considering starting with my local parish, as my sister works within the public school system and could provide vital connections. Additionally, my current role at Walmart has opened my eyes to potential upward mobility, and I’m contemplating an office position with the company, allowing me to transition from sales to a more accounting-focused role.

Seeking Your Recommendations

What are your thoughts on this approach? I’m particularly interested in any suggestions for navigating the job search process as I’ve only experienced one interview for an internship to date. Should I cast a wide net and apply for all types of accounting positions—whether they be internships, part-time, or full-time—as long as I meet the basic qualifications?

I graduated with a GPA of 3.1, and while I may not have any honors or internship experiences to boast about, I’ve gained invaluable skills from my nearly five years of work at Walmart. Do you think this might hinder my job search, or can I effectively market my experience?

Navigating Salary Expectations and Resume Enhancements

As I prepare for interviews, I’m eager to know what kind of starting salary I should anticipate and how to approach salary discussions. Additionally, given my lack of extracurricular involvement or internships, what specific strengths should I highlight in my resume and during interviews, beyond the usual education and work history?

I’ve heard opinions suggesting that in the field of accounting, securing an entry-level position—even if it doesn’t seem perfect—can lead to greater opportunities down the line. I’m also on track to meet the 150 credit hours required to sit for the CPA exam, thanks to my minor in Spanish and transfer credits. Is this a realistic view to hold?

Your Insights Matter

I apologize for the