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What's the best way to land an internship?
I'm going to grad school and will be pursuing an MSA degree. I want to use my time in grad school wisely.
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4 answers
Updated
Candice’s Answer
Hi Stacey! You can go to your university's job fairs to explore opportunities. Also, don't forget to check the careers section on public accounting firms' websites, where they often list available internships. You've got this! Good luck!
Updated
Meghan’s Answer
Hi Stacey, great question - here is some advice of steps to take:
Start Early: Many firms recruit months in advance—some even a year ahead—so start looking early in your program.
Use Campus Resources: Your university likely has a career services office that offers resume reviews, mock interviews, and internship listings. Professors and advisors can also point you to opportunities—especially if they have industry connections.
Network: Attend career fairs, accounting society meetings, and networking events. Reach out to alumni on LinkedIn who are working at firms you're interested in—they often appreciate helping current students.
Target Accounting Firms and Corporations: Look into public accounting firms like the Big Four (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG), mid-size firms, or corporate accounting departments. Many of them offer structured internship programs.
Polish Your Resume and Interview Skills: Highlight your coursework, relevant experience (even class projects or volunteer work), and software skills like Excel, Alteryx or QuickBooks. Practice common interview questions, especially behavioral ones.
Good luck with landing your internship!
Start Early: Many firms recruit months in advance—some even a year ahead—so start looking early in your program.
Use Campus Resources: Your university likely has a career services office that offers resume reviews, mock interviews, and internship listings. Professors and advisors can also point you to opportunities—especially if they have industry connections.
Network: Attend career fairs, accounting society meetings, and networking events. Reach out to alumni on LinkedIn who are working at firms you're interested in—they often appreciate helping current students.
Target Accounting Firms and Corporations: Look into public accounting firms like the Big Four (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG), mid-size firms, or corporate accounting departments. Many of them offer structured internship programs.
Polish Your Resume and Interview Skills: Highlight your coursework, relevant experience (even class projects or volunteer work), and software skills like Excel, Alteryx or QuickBooks. Practice common interview questions, especially behavioral ones.
Good luck with landing your internship!
Updated
Karima’s Answer
Great question—and awesome that you’re already thinking ahead! Since you're going for an MSA (Master of Science in Accounting), there are definitely some smart steps you can take to land a solid internship that helps you grow and sets you up for post-grad success. Here's how to make the most of your time:
🔍 1. Start Early
Don’t wait until you need the internship—start researching and applying as early as possible. Many accounting firms recruit months in advance, especially the big ones (like the Big Four).
💬 2. Use Your School’s Resources
Grad schools often have dedicated career centers, resume workshops, and networking events. Go to those info sessions and career fairs—you’ll meet recruiters and get on their radar.
🤝 3. Network Intentionally
Professors, alumni, and classmates can be great connections. Reach out to alumni on LinkedIn who are working in firms or roles you’re interested in—most are happy to offer advice or point you in the right direction.
📄 4. Customize Your Resume
Don’t send the same resume to every company. Tailor it to match what they’re looking for. Highlight your relevant coursework, any projects, or even soft skills like attention to detail and time management.
💻 5. Apply Broadly, But Strategically
Look at accounting firms, corporate finance departments, nonprofit orgs, and even government internships (like the IRS or state auditor offices). Try to pick ones that align with your long-term interests.
🚀 6. Show You’re Eager to Learn
Even if you don’t have tons of experience, a strong attitude goes a long way. In interviews or networking chats, talk about how you’re excited to learn, take on responsibility, and grow professionally.
Use grad school not just for classes—but for building experience, relationships, and clarity about your path. You're on the right track already!
🔍 1. Start Early
Don’t wait until you need the internship—start researching and applying as early as possible. Many accounting firms recruit months in advance, especially the big ones (like the Big Four).
💬 2. Use Your School’s Resources
Grad schools often have dedicated career centers, resume workshops, and networking events. Go to those info sessions and career fairs—you’ll meet recruiters and get on their radar.
🤝 3. Network Intentionally
Professors, alumni, and classmates can be great connections. Reach out to alumni on LinkedIn who are working in firms or roles you’re interested in—most are happy to offer advice or point you in the right direction.
📄 4. Customize Your Resume
Don’t send the same resume to every company. Tailor it to match what they’re looking for. Highlight your relevant coursework, any projects, or even soft skills like attention to detail and time management.
💻 5. Apply Broadly, But Strategically
Look at accounting firms, corporate finance departments, nonprofit orgs, and even government internships (like the IRS or state auditor offices). Try to pick ones that align with your long-term interests.
🚀 6. Show You’re Eager to Learn
Even if you don’t have tons of experience, a strong attitude goes a long way. In interviews or networking chats, talk about how you’re excited to learn, take on responsibility, and grow professionally.
Use grad school not just for classes—but for building experience, relationships, and clarity about your path. You're on the right track already!
Updated
Sneha’s Answer
Hi Stacey! The best way to land an internship, especially in accounting or with the Big 4, is to start early, stay proactive, and build relationships. I received my internship by applying sophomore year of college for my junior year internship which in turn gave me my full time position now. Polish your resume to highlight academic achievements, leadership roles, and any relevant coursework or part-time jobs, and tailor it for each application. Network through career fairs, LinkedIn, alumni connections, and student accounting organizations like Beta Alpha Psi or NABA. Practice interviews early using behavioral and technical questions, and be sure to understand the basics of financial and tax accounting. Most importantly, stay confident and consistent, grad school is a perfect time to grow your experience and position yourself for success. Good luck!