Graduated today with my bachelor’s! Any advice for the future?

Navigating the Next Steps After Graduation: Seeking Your Guidance

Hello, dear readers,

Today marks a significant milestone for me—I’ve officially graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting! As I embark on this new chapter in my life, I felt it was the perfect moment to share my journey and seek your valuable advice on what lies ahead.

I’ve been a quiet observer of this community for a couple of years while completing my studies, but today I’m stepping forward to ask for insights as I begin my job search in the Accounting field. At 22 years old, I’m both excited and a bit anxious about what comes next.

Planning My Job Search

I intend to start applying for full-time positions around mid to late June. However, before that, my mother and I have planned a family trip that will bring me up close with relatives I haven’t seen in ages. Once I return, my plan is to focus my job applications primarily where I have some connections—beginning with my local parish in Louisiana where my sister works, and potentially with Walmart, where I’m currently employed, aiming for a transition into an office role.

What do you think about this strategy? I’m eager to hear your thoughts on how to approach my job search effectively. Despite my limited experience—having interviewed only once for an internship last October—I’m feeling hopeful.

Exploring Opportunities in Accounting

Should I consider applying to all available Accounting positions, even if they’re internships, part-time, or entry-level roles, as long as I meet the basic requirements? I’m also curious if my GPA of 3.1, alongside the lack of internships and extracurricular activities, will significantly impact my chances of securing a job.

What’s a reasonable starting salary for someone entering the field, and what’s the best way to negotiate that figure? Additionally, since my background is somewhat sparse in terms of extracurriculars, I’m wondering what specific elements I should emphasize on my resume and during interviews to make a strong impression.

The Path Forward in Accounting

I’ve heard from both professors and fellow students that a bachelor’s degree in accounting can be a great gateway into the industry, even if it means starting in less-than-ideal roles. With my additional coursework—including the 150 credit hours required for the CPA exam—I hope to leverage my bilingual skills in Spanish to enhance my prospects. Is this a widely held belief, and how can I effectively utilize my educational background moving forward?

I apologize for the lengthy message