11 answers
Trent
Student
Cranston, Rhode Island
1
Question
Asked
702 views
How difficult is it to land an internship/job directly out of college with a business degree?
12th grader entering college next year, planning on majoring in business
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11 answers
Jason White
Lead Product Manager- Network Security
155
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Trent,
Great that you're looking forward to taking major steps in your career. I would say that landing an internship or job is largely based on how involved someone is and when they begin looking. There are a variety of companies that offer internships and jobs and have very targeted efforts to get students to sign up. College hire programs help fresh college grads land jobs with some of the more well know companies. A lot of landing these will be networking with your career services center on campus to see which companies they have strong ties to and you can interview with. The career services center will provide resourses like resume workshops and mock interviews to prepare you. I would start now thinking about what companies do things that interest you, what industries you might want to work in and learning about if they offer internships and college hire programs so that you are ahead of the curve when you go to get an internship over the next few years.
Great that you're looking forward to taking major steps in your career. I would say that landing an internship or job is largely based on how involved someone is and when they begin looking. There are a variety of companies that offer internships and jobs and have very targeted efforts to get students to sign up. College hire programs help fresh college grads land jobs with some of the more well know companies. A lot of landing these will be networking with your career services center on campus to see which companies they have strong ties to and you can interview with. The career services center will provide resourses like resume workshops and mock interviews to prepare you. I would start now thinking about what companies do things that interest you, what industries you might want to work in and learning about if they offer internships and college hire programs so that you are ahead of the curve when you go to get an internship over the next few years.
Isaac Hyman
Database Implementations & Support
8
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Isaac’s Answer
Hi Trent!
Staying persistent is the key to landing an internship or job. Keep doing well in your studies, join clubs, and grow your network to become a well-rounded person. Don't hesitate to ask for help from a counselor, club leader, or mentor. Remember, your resume is important too. Learning how to interview effectively while being friendly is a great skill. Check if there are campus clubs or courses for interviewing or public speaking. If you don’t get a job or internship, don't worry! Reach out to the company to learn what you can improve. They might give you useful tips. Enjoy this exciting journey! I hope this helps, along with the advice from others.
Staying persistent is the key to landing an internship or job. Keep doing well in your studies, join clubs, and grow your network to become a well-rounded person. Don't hesitate to ask for help from a counselor, club leader, or mentor. Remember, your resume is important too. Learning how to interview effectively while being friendly is a great skill. Check if there are campus clubs or courses for interviewing or public speaking. If you don’t get a job or internship, don't worry! Reach out to the company to learn what you can improve. They might give you useful tips. Enjoy this exciting journey! I hope this helps, along with the advice from others.
Michael Ruth
Technology Consultant
1
Answer
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Trent!
First of all, it's fantastic that you're already thinking ahead about your career and planning to major in business. That's a great step! Landing an internship or job directly out of college with a business degree can be challenging, but it's definitely achievable. The job market can be competitive, and sometimes it might take a few tries before you land the perfect role. However, don't be discouraged if you apply for a job or internship and don't get the role right away. Every application and interview is a valuable learning experience that helps you grow and improve your skills. When I was in your shoes, I faced similar challenges. There were times when I didn't get the role I wanted, but each experience taught me something new. Whether it was refining my resume, improving my interview skills, or simply learning more about what I wanted in a job, every step was important. I encourage you to seek out and attend career fairs, networking events and internship opportunities during your college years as these can significantly boost your chances. Don't hesitate to reach out to professors, career counselors, and alumni for advice and opportunities. They can provide valuable insights and connections that might lead to your next opportunity. Stay positive, keep learning, and don't be afraid to take risks. Your persistence and dedication will pay off in the long run. Good luck with your studies and future career!
First of all, it's fantastic that you're already thinking ahead about your career and planning to major in business. That's a great step! Landing an internship or job directly out of college with a business degree can be challenging, but it's definitely achievable. The job market can be competitive, and sometimes it might take a few tries before you land the perfect role. However, don't be discouraged if you apply for a job or internship and don't get the role right away. Every application and interview is a valuable learning experience that helps you grow and improve your skills. When I was in your shoes, I faced similar challenges. There were times when I didn't get the role I wanted, but each experience taught me something new. Whether it was refining my resume, improving my interview skills, or simply learning more about what I wanted in a job, every step was important. I encourage you to seek out and attend career fairs, networking events and internship opportunities during your college years as these can significantly boost your chances. Don't hesitate to reach out to professors, career counselors, and alumni for advice and opportunities. They can provide valuable insights and connections that might lead to your next opportunity. Stay positive, keep learning, and don't be afraid to take risks. Your persistence and dedication will pay off in the long run. Good luck with your studies and future career!
Marilyn Herrera
BOOKKEEPING
1
Answer
Van Nuys, IN
Updated
Marilyn’s Answer
Hi Trent,
Great question! Many companies are happy to let you intern or work with them while you're earning your accounting degree. They're also excited to offer opportunities to new graduates and provide training once you finish your degree. Best of luck!
Great question! Many companies are happy to let you intern or work with them while you're earning your accounting degree. They're also excited to offer opportunities to new graduates and provide training once you finish your degree. Best of luck!
Cathy Daly
Sales Education Manager
9
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Cathy’s Answer
Many schools offer the opportunity to do internships while learning, either during school year or over the summer. Seek that out in your college search. As others stated, gives you a heads up for post college employment, but also helps validate interest areas. Best of luck!
Alex Hansen
Accounting
1
Answer
Farmington, Utah
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Hi Trent!
This is a great question. I think it's awesome that you are asking this question and something I did myself when I was starting college. I too was interested in doing a business degree. After talking with friends, parents, school counselors and business professionals I ultimately decided to instead focus on an area that interested me within the business field and that was accounting. I had felt that a business degree was a bit too broad which would make it hard to narrow down my focus on potential internships and jobs after I graduated. Once I decided on accounting I was able to start focusing on my future and what it would take to achieve my goals. I was able to meet with school career counselors and mentors that helped guide me into Beta Alpha Psi which is an honors organization for students interested in financial professions. This allowed me to start building my network in the finance world. I was able to attend all the public accounting recruiting events and meet like minded professionals. I can't stress the importance of building a solid network. Internships are very competitive and making sure you are getting to know and become familiar with the recruiters and companies you are interested in is key. This will give you the opportunity to set yourself apart from everyone else and have your name on their minds when they are deciding who to bring in. I would say that it can be difficult to land an internship but it really depends on your motivation and efforts. The more work and effort you put into it the more likely you will be successful in landing the internship you are looking for. The fact that you are already asking this question is a great first step. I hope this helps. Good Luck!
This is a great question. I think it's awesome that you are asking this question and something I did myself when I was starting college. I too was interested in doing a business degree. After talking with friends, parents, school counselors and business professionals I ultimately decided to instead focus on an area that interested me within the business field and that was accounting. I had felt that a business degree was a bit too broad which would make it hard to narrow down my focus on potential internships and jobs after I graduated. Once I decided on accounting I was able to start focusing on my future and what it would take to achieve my goals. I was able to meet with school career counselors and mentors that helped guide me into Beta Alpha Psi which is an honors organization for students interested in financial professions. This allowed me to start building my network in the finance world. I was able to attend all the public accounting recruiting events and meet like minded professionals. I can't stress the importance of building a solid network. Internships are very competitive and making sure you are getting to know and become familiar with the recruiters and companies you are interested in is key. This will give you the opportunity to set yourself apart from everyone else and have your name on their minds when they are deciding who to bring in. I would say that it can be difficult to land an internship but it really depends on your motivation and efforts. The more work and effort you put into it the more likely you will be successful in landing the internship you are looking for. The fact that you are already asking this question is a great first step. I hope this helps. Good Luck!
Eugene Monroy
CPA
2
Answers
Yorba Linda, California
Updated
Eugene’s Answer
I think it’s helpful to join the CPA club at your college and go to as much of the recruiting events you can go to. Make connections with the firms and many of the firms recruit for interns. Invest time into drafting an effective resume.
Ann M. Janoski
Accounting, Tax
3
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Ann M.’s Answer
A major factor to success in gaining employment is not to wait until you have your degree. Many companies offer internships early in your education (even first year) which allows them to work with someone over several years and then hire a trained employee. So, check with your university's placement office for internship opportunities or even "leadership" or career day programs that are offered potential employers. Employers use these activities as an opportunity to meet potential next hires. These also could allow you to shadow various departments at these companies and see options within your career path.
Also, talk to your professors and ask for their advice or for a referral to an internship program. You want to be seen and known by these new potential employers.
Also, talk to your professors and ask for their advice or for a referral to an internship program. You want to be seen and known by these new potential employers.
David Ludwick
Business Owner
60
Answers
Huntington Beach, California
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Trent,
Landing an internship or job directly out of college with a business degree can range from moderately challenging to highly competitive, depending on a few key factors. Like any career path right out of college, several factors must be considered. Here are a few:
1. Your Major & Focus Area
High-demand areas like Finance, Accounting (especially for CPA-track), Business Analytics, and Supply Chain often have more structured recruiting pipelines.
Marketing, Management, or General Business may be more flexible, but they often require stronger portfolios, networking, or internships to stand out.
2. Internship Experience
Internships are often the #1 factor in securing a full-time role. Employers look for real-world experience, and those with at least one relevant internship have a much higher chance of landing a job after graduation.
3. School Reputation & Networking
Attending a target or semi-target school (like Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business) gives you access to strong recruiting pipelines, alumni networks, and career fairs.
Proactively networking (LinkedIn, career events, alumni outreach) is just as important as GPA.
4. Your Resume, Interview Skills, and Involvement
A clean, tailored resume, strong interview preparation, and involvement in clubs (like DECA, AMA, finance/investment clubs) can really set you apart.
Soft skills, professionalism, and how you pitch yourself matter a lot—especially in business roles.
5. The Job Market
Economic conditions affect job availability. Business degrees are versatile, but job-seekers might still face high competition in saturated fields or slower job markets.
With no prior internships, a mediocre GPA (<3.0), or minimal networking, landing a prestigious job or internship can be very difficult, and you may need to start with less competitive roles (e.g., administrative or retail management).
With 1-2 internships, a solid GPA (3.5+), and a proactive approach to networking, securing a good internship or entry-level role at a reputable firm is moderately achievable.
The process requires persistence: You may need to apply to 50-100 roles to secure 1-2 offers, based on anecdotal reports from X and web forums. That is the reality in today's job market. Do everything you can to shine above the crowd and you will find and secure the opportunity you are looking for. Good luck!
Landing an internship or job directly out of college with a business degree can range from moderately challenging to highly competitive, depending on a few key factors. Like any career path right out of college, several factors must be considered. Here are a few:
1. Your Major & Focus Area
High-demand areas like Finance, Accounting (especially for CPA-track), Business Analytics, and Supply Chain often have more structured recruiting pipelines.
Marketing, Management, or General Business may be more flexible, but they often require stronger portfolios, networking, or internships to stand out.
2. Internship Experience
Internships are often the #1 factor in securing a full-time role. Employers look for real-world experience, and those with at least one relevant internship have a much higher chance of landing a job after graduation.
3. School Reputation & Networking
Attending a target or semi-target school (like Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business) gives you access to strong recruiting pipelines, alumni networks, and career fairs.
Proactively networking (LinkedIn, career events, alumni outreach) is just as important as GPA.
4. Your Resume, Interview Skills, and Involvement
A clean, tailored resume, strong interview preparation, and involvement in clubs (like DECA, AMA, finance/investment clubs) can really set you apart.
Soft skills, professionalism, and how you pitch yourself matter a lot—especially in business roles.
5. The Job Market
Economic conditions affect job availability. Business degrees are versatile, but job-seekers might still face high competition in saturated fields or slower job markets.
With no prior internships, a mediocre GPA (<3.0), or minimal networking, landing a prestigious job or internship can be very difficult, and you may need to start with less competitive roles (e.g., administrative or retail management).
With 1-2 internships, a solid GPA (3.5+), and a proactive approach to networking, securing a good internship or entry-level role at a reputable firm is moderately achievable.
The process requires persistence: You may need to apply to 50-100 roles to secure 1-2 offers, based on anecdotal reports from X and web forums. That is the reality in today's job market. Do everything you can to shine above the crowd and you will find and secure the opportunity you are looking for. Good luck!
Jeffrey Stephens
Chief of staff for Government Affairs
8
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jeffrey’s Answer
Finding an internship can be very competitive, but don't be deterred! Look for job, internship, or volunteer opportunities on or near campus that you can do while you're studying. That experience will look very attractive to big companies who are recruiting interns. Good luck!
Chun Min Chiu
Channel Partner Enablement and Partner Programs
3
Answers
Singapore
Updated
Chun Min’s Answer
Hi Trent,
It's a great idea to see if your university offers a campus recruitment program with leading companies that hire new graduates. This could be a fantastic opportunity for you!
Think about which industries excite you the most and where you want to focus your career. Deciding this before applying for jobs or internships will give you a clear direction.
Career service agencies can be a big help, too. They can guide you in crafting your resume, preparing for interviews, and finding the right job opportunities. Considering this option could be very beneficial.
Starting early is a smart move. Getting familiar with the process through campus recruitment can really give students a boost if your university offers this option. Keep pushing forward!
It's a great idea to see if your university offers a campus recruitment program with leading companies that hire new graduates. This could be a fantastic opportunity for you!
Think about which industries excite you the most and where you want to focus your career. Deciding this before applying for jobs or internships will give you a clear direction.
Career service agencies can be a big help, too. They can guide you in crafting your resume, preparing for interviews, and finding the right job opportunities. Considering this option could be very beneficial.
Starting early is a smart move. Getting familiar with the process through campus recruitment can really give students a boost if your university offers this option. Keep pushing forward!