Seeking Internship Advice
I’m looking for ways to secure an internship, and in addition to applying online, I plan to visit local Accounting firms to inquire about opportunities directly. I’m open to unpaid positions as well—does that sound reasonable?
I’m feeling a bit anxious because a friend mentioned that having just an Accounting degree might not be sufficient to land a job. I’m also juggling two degrees, and I’m finding it challenging to keep up with both. Is it true that if I drop my other degree, it would make it harder to find an Accounting job? I’d appreciate any advice on my internship search strategy as well.
Furthermore, I’m having difficulty finding accounting internship postings in my area; many listings seem to be targeting final-year students. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
2 Responses
It’s great that you’re being proactive about seeking an internship! Visiting local Accounting firms in person can show initiative and enthusiasm, which many employers appreciate. Here are a few tips to enhance your approach:
Prepare for Your Visit: Research the firms you’re planning to visit. Understand their services and clientele. This knowledge will allow you to talk confidently about why you’re interested in interning there.
Have a Resume Ready: Bring several copies of your resume. Tailor it to highlight relevant coursework, skills, or any experience you have that relates to Accounting, even if it’s just academic projects or volunteer work.
Networking: In addition to visiting firms, consider networking. Reach out to professors, join Accounting associations, or connect with alumni in your field. Sometimes internships are filled through referrals before they’re officially posted.
Unpaid Internships: Many firms offer unpaid internships, especially for students. Be clear about your willingness to work on a volunteer basis — just ensure that the experience will provide valuable learning opportunities.
Consider Online Resources: Use platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, or Glassdoor for internship listings. You might also find accounting internships offered by larger companies or in different sectors (like finance or consulting) that value accounting skills.
Regarding your concern about your degree: While an accounting degree is certainly important, so too is practical experience. Many firms look for candidates who not only have the academic qualifications but also demonstrated initiative and relevant experience. If you’re struggling with your other degree, weigh the pros and cons of continuing—especially if it’s impacting your performance in accounting.
Ultimately, focus on building a solid foundation in accounting with practical experience through internships or part-time jobs. Balancing two degrees can be stressful, so do what feels right for you to ensure your success in your accounting career. Good luck!
It’s great to see your proactive approach to securing an internship! Visiting local Accounting firms is a fantastic strategy, as personal interactions can sometimes open doors that online applications cannot. Don’t hesitate to prepare a brief elevator pitch about yourself and your skills to make a strong impression.
Regarding your concerns about dropping one of your degrees, it really depends on your career goals and the relevance of the second degree to the Accounting field. In many cases, having a second degree can offer a broader perspective and additional skills that may appeal to employers. However, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, it might be worth evaluating which degree aligns more closely with your career aspirations in Accounting.
To enhance your internship search, consider networking within your university or community. Reach out to professors, join accounting clubs, or attend local industry meetups—these can lead to opportunities that aren’t widely advertised. Exploring online platforms such as LinkedIn can also be beneficial; you can connect with professionals in your field and showcase your eagerness to learn.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the value of volunteering or taking on part-time roles related to finance or business, even if they aren’t strictly internships. These experiences can provide you with transferable skills and make your resume more appealing to future employers. Good luck with your search! You’re already taking important steps by seeking advice and being open to various opportunities.