Navigating the Journey Ahead: Seeking Guidance After Graduation

Today marks a significant milestone in my life: I have officially graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Accounting! As I step into this new chapter, I’m reaching out for insights and advice as I embark on my job search journey.

Having quietly followed this community for several years during my academic pursuit, I’ve gained so much knowledge from all of you. Now that I’ve earned my degree at the age of 22, it feels like the perfect moment to actively engage and seek your wisdom as I transition into the professional world.

My Plan Moving Forward

My current strategy is to start applying for full-time Accounting positions around mid to late June. I am planning a family vacation that occurs earlier that month, and upon returning, I’ll dive into job applications. One of my first targets is my local parish in Louisiana, leveraging the connection I have through my sister, who is employed in the public school system. Additionally, I’m considering exploring opportunities within Walmart, my current employer, to potentially advance into an office role rather than remaining on the sales floor.

Seeking Your Expertise

I would greatly appreciate your thoughts on this plan. Is there any valuable advice you would give to someone like me who is beginning their job search journey? Having only attended one interview for an internship last October, I find myself wondering if I should apply to any Accounting position that fits my qualifications, including internships, part-time roles, or full-time opportunities.

Furthermore, I have a GPA of 3.1, which may not be particularly impressive, and I lack substantial internship experience or extracurricular activities beyond my nearly five years at Walmart. How much of an obstacle do you think this will present in my job search? Also, what is a realistic starting salary I should anticipate or aim for during negotiations?

Since my resume is rather straightforward, I’m curious about what additional details I can include during interviews to enhance my appeal to potential employers. While I have the fundamental elements covered, I know I need to present myself in the best light possible.

The Road Ahead

I’ve heard from both my professors and discussions within this subreddit that with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, I have the opportunity to enter the field, regardless of the initial position. With the added advantage of having completed the 150-credit hour requirement needed for my CPA exam, I’m hopeful about my prospects. Additionally, I hold a minor in Spanish, which makes me bilingual — could this also play a role