Seeking Advice on ‘Meet the Firms’ Events
I’m currently working at the IRS and looking to transition into private Accounting. I began my bachelor’s program at WGU in March 2025 and plan to graduate in March 2026. After graduation, I’ll be eligible to sit for the CPA exam since I already hold a prior bachelor’s degree.
I’ve applied for 2026 internships to see what opportunities might arise, and a recruiter from Forvis Mazars contacted me. She mentioned that they recruit from ‘Meet the Firms’ events in the fall for 2026 associate positions and recommended I attend.
I’m considering sneaking into a local college’s ‘Meet the Firms’ event, but I’m not aware of WGU hosting one. I could ask the recruiter for recommendations on where to go, but I’m worried it might come across as uninformed.
Any advice? Thanks!
One response
It’s great to hear that you’re taking proactive steps towards transitioning into private Accounting! Here are a few thoughts on your situation:
Attending Meet the Firms Events: It’s definitely worth attending Meet the Firms events, even if they aren’t specifically hosted by WGU. Many employers are open to candidates from various schools, and it can be a great networking opportunity. Sneaking into a local college’s event might not be the best approach, though. Instead, you could reach out to the college hosting the event and inquire if they’re open to non-students attending. Many colleges are welcoming to interested candidates.
Ask the Recruiter: It’s totally reasonable to ask the recruiter for recommendations on where to find Meet the Firms events or if they know of any that are open to WGU students or others. You won’t seem stupid—most recruiters appreciate candidates who take initiative and seek out opportunities.
Networking: In addition to formal events, consider using networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals at firms you’re interested in. This can sometimes lead to informal meetups or events that aren’t widely advertised.
Expand Your Search: Besides Meet the Firms events, look for career fairs, Accounting workshops, or related networking events that might not be specific to just one college. The more you can engage with the community, the better your chances of making meaningful connections.
Leverage Your IRS Experience: Make sure to highlight your IRS experience on your resume and during networking interactions. This background gives you a unique perspective and valuable skills that can set you apart from other candidates.
Good luck with your internship applications and networking efforts! You’re on the right track.