Navigating the Next Steps After Graduation: Seeking Guidance for a Career in Accounting

Hello, readers!

Today marks a significant milestone for me—I’ve officially graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Accounting! As I transition into this new chapter of my life, I find myself eagerly seeking advice regarding my upcoming career journey.

As a 22-year-old just stepping into the professional world, I’ve been a part of this community for a while, absorbing insights throughout my college years. With a little experience under my belt, including five years at Walmart, I am now ready to embark on my job search. My goal is to apply for full-time Accounting positions starting in mid to late June, right after a family vacation that’s been long overdue.

While I plan to apply for roles at local firms, including my parish—thanks to my sister’s connections in the public school system—I’m also considering opportunities at Walmart to transition into an office role. I believe this would allow me to leverage my existing experience while moving up the ladder more effectively.

Here are some of the questions and concerns that I have as I prepare to dive into the job market:

1. Is my plan sound? Should I primarily target Accounting positions, even those that may be internships, part-time roles, or entry-level jobs?

2. What challenges might I face due to my GPA of 3.1? I didn’t graduate with honors and lack internship experience, which raises concerns about my competitiveness. Will my work experience at Walmart suffice in making me an attractive candidate?

3. What salary expectations should I have? I’m curious about what entry-level accountants typically earn and how to approach salary discussions during interviews.

4. Without extensive extracurriculars, what should I emphasize on my resume? My resume already showcases my educational background and work experience, but I’d love pointers on how to effectively market myself in interviews.

I’ve heard from both professors and fellow students that in the accounting field, having a bachelor’s degree can open many doors, even if the first job isn’t ideal. Additionally, the 150 credit hours I’ve accumulated for my CPA exam and my bilingual skills might strengthen my candidacy. Is this perspective accurate?

Thank you for taking the time to read my reflections. Your insights mean a lot to me as I navigate these early stages of my career. Please feel free to ask for any additional details if it would help you provide more targeted advice.

Looking forward to your thoughts!