55 answers
Matthew
Student
Chesapeake, Virginia
1
Question
Asked
3536 views
Starting an accounting major, what specific jobs should I take?
I am committing to an accounting major, which I start my first year of college this fall. As I go through college, are there specific jobs that would benefit me from my major?
54 answers
Holly Fambrough
Accounting
7
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Holly’s Answer
I would recommend either an internship with an accounting firm or look into if there are any small entry-level bookkeeping or finance jobs in your area. You could look into an A/P or A/R Clerk or something similar. Any of these options should help benefit you!
Jake Schachter
Audit
12
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Jake’s Answer
I would try to get an internship at an accounting or business management firm. This would give you insight into possible career options. Auditing, tax, business management, consulting.. the opportunities are limitless.
You should work with your school’s career center to practice interviewing skills as well.
You should work with your school’s career center to practice interviewing skills as well.
Eric Chang
Risk and Financial Advisory Analyst
4
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Internships in one of the following would help:
Audit
Tax
Assurance
Eric recommends the following next steps:
Christopher Chang
Tax Accountant
6
Answers
Allen, Texas
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Hi Matthew.
I would try getting various internships whether it be audit or tax to help give you an idea where you want to go. Even a bookkeeping job is applicable experience for any industry.
If you are interested in tax accounting, I would consider volunteering in your local VITA program. This gives a taste of what we do as a tax accountant by preparing tax returns for free for various people.
I would try getting various internships whether it be audit or tax to help give you an idea where you want to go. Even a bookkeeping job is applicable experience for any industry.
If you are interested in tax accounting, I would consider volunteering in your local VITA program. This gives a taste of what we do as a tax accountant by preparing tax returns for free for various people.
Fang Chen
Accountant
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Fang’s Answer
I suggest getting an internship at an accounting firm. The school career center can help with your resume, give advice on finding an internship, and offer interview practice.
Evan Coyne
Audit
3
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Evan’s Answer
Hello Matthew,
I can only speak from my personal experience, but what I found helpful is starting with an AP role with a company of a size/industry you are interested in. During college I spent 4 months working with a high funded start-up, and I found it incredibly beneficial to see the inside of the operations for a short staffed company with large operations. Any opportunity that lets you see the most of what you are interested in, will never be a bad decision for your future growth.
I can only speak from my personal experience, but what I found helpful is starting with an AP role with a company of a size/industry you are interested in. During college I spent 4 months working with a high funded start-up, and I found it incredibly beneficial to see the inside of the operations for a short staffed company with large operations. Any opportunity that lets you see the most of what you are interested in, will never be a bad decision for your future growth.
Xiaojie Feng
Accountant
2
Answers
Walnut Creek, California
Updated
Xiaojie’s Answer
1. Accounting Assistant: Help accountants with everyday jobs like making reports and updating spreadsheets.
2. Accounting Clerk: Handle financial papers, check for accuracy, and create reports.
3. Account Manager: Keep an eye on client accounts, talk with clients, and build strong customer relationships.
4. Auditor: Check financial records to make sure everything is correct and follows the rules.
5. Tax Advisor: Assist people and businesses with preparing and filing taxes, and offer advice on tax issues.
6. Financial Analyst: Look at financial data to help businesses make smart choices.
7. Forensic Accountant: Investigate financial issues and fraud, often working with police.
8. Management Accountant: Work on internal financial tasks like budgeting and evaluating company performance.
2. Accounting Clerk: Handle financial papers, check for accuracy, and create reports.
3. Account Manager: Keep an eye on client accounts, talk with clients, and build strong customer relationships.
4. Auditor: Check financial records to make sure everything is correct and follows the rules.
5. Tax Advisor: Assist people and businesses with preparing and filing taxes, and offer advice on tax issues.
6. Financial Analyst: Look at financial data to help businesses make smart choices.
7. Forensic Accountant: Investigate financial issues and fraud, often working with police.
8. Management Accountant: Work on internal financial tasks like budgeting and evaluating company performance.
William Stull
CPA / Tax Director
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
William’s Answer
I highly suggest getting an internship if possible—it's a great way to gain real-world experience and discover what you like. Begin by visiting your college's career services or internship programs; they often have connections that can help you secure a position.
But don't just rely on that! If your school doesn't have options, take action by contacting local companies or organizations in your area of interest. Even sending a cold email or making a call can open unexpected doors. Being proactive and determined will benefit you in any career!
But don't just rely on that! If your school doesn't have options, take action by contacting local companies or organizations in your area of interest. Even sending a cold email or making a call can open unexpected doors. Being proactive and determined will benefit you in any career!
Alina Mihalascu
2
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Alina’s Answer
An internship is a fantastic way to explore what you want to pursue in your career and discover which areas of accounting excite you the most. I often suggest beginning with smaller companies instead of big corporations. With a supportive mentor, you can learn about different parts of the business and how to translate them into financial insights. Another great choice is an internship with an audit firm, where you'll gain experience in various industries, meet diverse clients, and strengthen your accounting skills. I hope this advice inspires you. Good luck on your journey!
Tatyana Tsirkind
Accounting
2
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Tatyana’s Answer
It will be good to start from basics - Accounts payable Clerk/ Account receivable clerk
Pam Lucero CPA
Senior Manager - Accounting Firm
4
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
Pam’s Answer
Hi Matthew!
I suggest looking into an internship with an accounting firm or starting with entry-level positions like accounts payable or receivable clerk. Many bookkeeping companies are searching for part-time entry-level workers and can offer flexible schedules. Any chance to work in accounting will be a great boost for you!
I suggest looking into an internship with an accounting firm or starting with entry-level positions like accounts payable or receivable clerk. Many bookkeeping companies are searching for part-time entry-level workers and can offer flexible schedules. Any chance to work in accounting will be a great boost for you!
Luke Cardozo
Auditor
2
Answers
Rohnert Park, California
Updated
Luke’s Answer
Check if your college has an accounting club. These clubs often hold career fairs once or twice a year, which can help you find an internship in your field of study.
Allison Jasper
Tax Accountant
6
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Allison’s Answer
During college, I spent a few summers working at a temp agency. This experience exposed me to various types of businesses, which significantly enhanced my understanding of business acumen. It also helped me identify what I enjoyed and what I didn't
Mel Dodge
Bookkeeper
5
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Mel’s Answer
- With an accounting major, you have the opportunity to start your career in roles such as an accounting clerk, bookkeeper, or accounting assistant.
- You can also explore exciting positions like an intern, staff accountant, or payroll specialist/clerk.
- You can also explore exciting positions like an intern, staff accountant, or payroll specialist/clerk.
Frandelys Cabrera
Accountant
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Frandelys’s Answer
Hello Mathew,
Congratulations on your college acceptance!
Finding an internship as a freshman may be difficult, but don't get discouraged. I highly recommend joining an accounting club. It is a great way to build connections and get early exposure to the field. When you're in your sophomore and junior years, start applying for internships at the Big 4 firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG). These opportunities can lead to a full-time job after you graduate. Make sure you attend career fairs and campus recruiting events!
Congratulations on your college acceptance!
Finding an internship as a freshman may be difficult, but don't get discouraged. I highly recommend joining an accounting club. It is a great way to build connections and get early exposure to the field. When you're in your sophomore and junior years, start applying for internships at the Big 4 firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG). These opportunities can lead to a full-time job after you graduate. Make sure you attend career fairs and campus recruiting events!
Trevor Jensen
Audit & Assurance Assistant
3
Answers
San Tan Valley, Arizona
Updated
Trevor’s Answer
Hi Matthew,
I suggest reaching out to someone you know in the accounting field to see if they can help you secure an internship or part-time job. I was lucky to connect with someone from my church who owned an accounting firm, and they kindly hired me as an audit assistant while I was still in school. At first, I wasn't sure if it was the right move, but I learned that it's important to put yourself out there and explore different areas like audit, tax, or consulting. Your school offers many resources, such as professors, classmates, and counselors, who can assist you in finding opportunities. Embrace whatever comes your way, and I hope this advice helps you!
I suggest reaching out to someone you know in the accounting field to see if they can help you secure an internship or part-time job. I was lucky to connect with someone from my church who owned an accounting firm, and they kindly hired me as an audit assistant while I was still in school. At first, I wasn't sure if it was the right move, but I learned that it's important to put yourself out there and explore different areas like audit, tax, or consulting. Your school offers many resources, such as professors, classmates, and counselors, who can assist you in finding opportunities. Embrace whatever comes your way, and I hope this advice helps you!
Willy Chicas
Tax Accountant
2
Answers
North Bergen, New Jersey
Updated
Willy’s Answer
Hi Matthew! Choosing a career in accounting is a fantastic decision, so congratulations on your commitment. There are so many different paths you can take in this field, which is one of the reasons I chose to study accounting in college. I recommend trying out various internships or jobs in tax and auditing. As you progress in your studies and career, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what you enjoy working on. You can explore positions in accounts receivable, accounts payable, tax, or even roles in external or internal auditing. Keep exploring and learning, and you'll find the right fit for you. Best of luck!
Jordan Yanev, CPA, CISA
Cybersecurity
4
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Jordan’s Answer
Hi Matthew,
Great question! Accounting is a rewarding career with many possibilities. Besides the usual roles like handling numbers or doing taxes, there are also opportunities in consulting and IT. As businesses expand, they need help with growing their networks. I suggest you look for an internship with a small accounting firm or investment advisor. This will help you understand what a junior employee does every day and give you a chance to practice interacting with customers. It will show you the different paths you can take in an accounting career.
Great question! Accounting is a rewarding career with many possibilities. Besides the usual roles like handling numbers or doing taxes, there are also opportunities in consulting and IT. As businesses expand, they need help with growing their networks. I suggest you look for an internship with a small accounting firm or investment advisor. This will help you understand what a junior employee does every day and give you a chance to practice interacting with customers. It will show you the different paths you can take in an accounting career.
Amanda Julian
12
Answers
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
Hi Matthew - those first years as an accounting major will give you such a great foundation in business. You could literally any job dealing with business and numbers and it would benefit you. Here are some ideas:
Internships: Many accounting firms offer internships to students. These positions can provide hands-on experience in accounting practices and exposure to the industry.
Bookkeeping Assistant: Working as a bookkeeping assistant for small businesses can help you understand the basics of financial record-keeping and accounting software.
Campus Jobs: Positions such as working in the university's finance department or as a student assistant in the business school can be beneficial.
Tutoring: If you excel in your accounting courses, consider tutoring other students. This can reinforce your own knowledge while helping others.
Retail or Hospitality Jobs: These jobs often involve handling money and basic financial transactions, which can be useful experience.
Freelance Accounting Services: Offering basic accounting services to local businesses or individuals can be a great way to apply your skills and gain practical experience.
Administrative Assistant: Working in an office setting can provide exposure to business operations and financial management.
Balancing work and school can be challenging, so it's important to choose a job that fits your schedule and allows you to prioritize your studies. Good luck!
Internships: Many accounting firms offer internships to students. These positions can provide hands-on experience in accounting practices and exposure to the industry.
Bookkeeping Assistant: Working as a bookkeeping assistant for small businesses can help you understand the basics of financial record-keeping and accounting software.
Campus Jobs: Positions such as working in the university's finance department or as a student assistant in the business school can be beneficial.
Tutoring: If you excel in your accounting courses, consider tutoring other students. This can reinforce your own knowledge while helping others.
Retail or Hospitality Jobs: These jobs often involve handling money and basic financial transactions, which can be useful experience.
Freelance Accounting Services: Offering basic accounting services to local businesses or individuals can be a great way to apply your skills and gain practical experience.
Administrative Assistant: Working in an office setting can provide exposure to business operations and financial management.
Balancing work and school can be challenging, so it's important to choose a job that fits your schedule and allows you to prioritize your studies. Good luck!
Megan Roderick
Tax Senior
1
Answer
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Megan’s Answer
I suggest joining an accounting club or Beta Alpha Psi. These groups can help you start building your professional network early and show you the different career paths an accounting degree can offer. In your first year of college, try to find a job as an accounting clerk, or in accounts payable or receivable, at a local company. This will give you a foot in the door and experience in basic private accounting. Smaller public accounting firms might offer internships the summer after your sophomore year. For Big 4 public accounting, internships are usually available the summer after your fourth year, assuming you plan to do a fifth year to meet CPA exam requirements.
Nicole Ravas
Accountant
2
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
I would encourage you to get an internship with a public accounting firm. Usually the accounting firms will hire interns during the summer and/or during the January - March timeframe (busy season). If you are not sure what type of accounting you like - I would try audit internships. Audit gives you a broad understanding of accounting at different companies. Many times interns are given job offers by public accounting firms after their internship. Right now there is a shortage of accountants coming out of college.
Cyndi Garcia
Accounts Payable
4
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Cyndi’s Answer
Many accounting firms offer internships, which are awesome and great experience to add to your resume, and often times can lead to future job offers. I would also recommend an assistant position at a firm, to get your foot in the door. I was an administrative assistant for several years and and often these firms also have entry level admin or tax assistant part time positions where you can learn the basics of accounting and expenses until you get more knowledge under your belt. This can benefit you by learning a lot of the language, vocabulary, and provide some real life application. It also helps prepare you with more understanding of the office atmosphere and etiquette. Good luck!
Danny Seo
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Danny’s Answer
An internship at an accounting firm is a great chance, but as a first-year college student, it's also a good idea to explore different career options. You have four years to find out what you really like and what suits you best. In your first and second years, try to mix your major with things you enjoy. Look for various experiences. This will help you find a career that matches your skills and dreams.
Cathleen Kwok
Auditor, Accounting
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Cathleen’s Answer
Begin by exploring internships, particularly with companies that offer a variety of accounting areas for you to discover. Additionally, attend career fairs to speak with accounting professionals and inquire about their career journeys in the field.
Mandy Glosser
Accounting
1
Answer
Berkeley, California
Updated
Mandy’s Answer
Hi Matthew! It is so great that you are thinking ahead. I was a member of my accounting club at my college, which annually held an event called "Meet the Firms", which brought in different accounting firms and businesses (ranging from small to large) that let us meet them in a more business casual setting and get a feel for what what seemed like the best fit before applying for internships/full-time positions. If your school holds something similar, like a career fair event, I would highly recommend attending, as it helped me find the firm that I have worked at for the last 5+ years. The career offices at your college are also a great resource to see what companies are out there!
Breanna Hawkins
Audit
5
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Breanna’s Answer
Hi Matthew,
I would recommend applying for internships in accounting, finance, banking, etc. Bookkeeping roles too are very helpful as you are working through the accounting coursework in college and helps lay the foundation.
Best,
Breanna
I would recommend applying for internships in accounting, finance, banking, etc. Bookkeeping roles too are very helpful as you are working through the accounting coursework in college and helps lay the foundation.
Best,
Breanna
James Toups
2
Answers
Updated
James’s Answer
Consider seeking an internship with an accounting firm or checking for entry-level bookkeeping or finance jobs nearby. An in-person opportunity can give you a clearer view of an accountant's role and help you start networking and building valuable connections.
Marin Taylor, CPA
Tax Accountant, CPA
2
Answers
Redlands, California
Updated
Marin’s Answer
Hi Matthew! In your first year of college, take any job you can get to start building your resume, especially if you don't have prior work experience. I worked at my campus bookstore and worked my way up to student manager by my sophomore year. From there, I was able to use that experience to land a part-time job at a local CPA firm, where I worked through graduation and then received a full-time offer from EY.
As you move into your junior and senior years, start looking for teacher's assistant and tutoring roles for your university's accounting classes as well. The pay isn't great, but it's not usually a huge time commitment, and Big 4/other firms love to see experience like this on a resume. Good luck!
As you move into your junior and senior years, start looking for teacher's assistant and tutoring roles for your university's accounting classes as well. The pay isn't great, but it's not usually a huge time commitment, and Big 4/other firms love to see experience like this on a resume. Good luck!
Cole Crosier
2
Answers
Updated
Cole’s Answer
Hi,
Join groups like Beta Alpha Psi (the accounting honor society) or other business organizations. These provide networking opportunities, leadership experience, and exposure to the profession. Learn about the requirements for the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam early, so you can plan your coursework and internships accordingly. Attend campus career fairs, employer presentations, and networking events to meet recruiters and learn about job opportunities. Seek out mentors among professors, alumni, or professionals you meet through internships or networking events. Apply for internships at firms like Deloitte, PwC, EY, or KPMG, as well as regional or local firms. These internships are highly valued by employers and often lead to full-time job offers. Additionally, many companies offer summer or part-time internships in their finance or accounting departments.
Join groups like Beta Alpha Psi (the accounting honor society) or other business organizations. These provide networking opportunities, leadership experience, and exposure to the profession. Learn about the requirements for the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam early, so you can plan your coursework and internships accordingly. Attend campus career fairs, employer presentations, and networking events to meet recruiters and learn about job opportunities. Seek out mentors among professors, alumni, or professionals you meet through internships or networking events. Apply for internships at firms like Deloitte, PwC, EY, or KPMG, as well as regional or local firms. These internships are highly valued by employers and often lead to full-time job offers. Additionally, many companies offer summer or part-time internships in their finance or accounting departments.
Frank Chen
cpa
3
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Frank’s Answer
Committing to an accounting major is a smart move, and gaining relevant work experience during college will greatly benefit your studies and future career. As you begin your first year, consider looking for on-campus jobs such as a student accounting assistant or working in your university’s finance office, where you can help with bookkeeping, payroll, or financial reporting. Off campus, part-time positions like bookkeeping assistant, accounts payable/receivable clerk, or tax preparer assistant—especially during tax season—are excellent ways to build practical skills. Internships are especially valuable, so aim to secure positions with public accounting firms, internal audit or finance departments in corporations, or government agencies. These internships provide hands-on experience and help you understand the day-to-day work of accountants.
Additionally, volunteering as a treasurer for student organizations or participating in the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program can give you real-world exposure to managing budgets and preparing tax returns. These roles not only help you develop technical skills with accounting software and spreadsheets, but also allow you to build a professional network and strengthen your resume. Start with on-campus or part-time jobs in your early years, and as you progress, pursue internships and leadership roles in clubs or organizations. By actively seeking out these opportunities, you’ll lay a solid foundation for your accounting career and stand out to employers after graduation.
Additionally, volunteering as a treasurer for student organizations or participating in the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program can give you real-world exposure to managing budgets and preparing tax returns. These roles not only help you develop technical skills with accounting software and spreadsheets, but also allow you to build a professional network and strengthen your resume. Start with on-campus or part-time jobs in your early years, and as you progress, pursue internships and leadership roles in clubs or organizations. By actively seeking out these opportunities, you’ll lay a solid foundation for your accounting career and stand out to employers after graduation.
Gabriel Guanga
Auditor
10
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Gabriel’s Answer
Try to get an accounting internship or job as soon as you can. This helps in two main ways:
1. The accounting field has many areas and paths to success. By working in the field, you can learn what you like and don't like. This helps you decide if a future job is right for you. For example, I had a part-time internship as a government accountant but found it too slow. Then I looked roles with a much faster pace like a Big 4 auditor. After being in that position for almost a year, I found it to be a much better fit.
2. Having accounting experience on your resume makes you stand out. It gives you things to discuss in interviews and impresses future employers.
I suggest visiting your school's career center. They can tell you about jobs for students and help you improve your resume and interview skills for accounting roles.
1. The accounting field has many areas and paths to success. By working in the field, you can learn what you like and don't like. This helps you decide if a future job is right for you. For example, I had a part-time internship as a government accountant but found it too slow. Then I looked roles with a much faster pace like a Big 4 auditor. After being in that position for almost a year, I found it to be a much better fit.
2. Having accounting experience on your resume makes you stand out. It gives you things to discuss in interviews and impresses future employers.
I suggest visiting your school's career center. They can tell you about jobs for students and help you improve your resume and interview skills for accounting roles.
Asma Khan
Tax Accountant
5
Answers
Moorpark, California
Updated
Asma’s Answer
Hi Matthew! Sometimes it feels hard when going to get an internship or any position in general, there's so much competition and very limited spaces. My recommendation to you would be to go for any firm larger or small and get whatever you can get your hands on. Sometimes when starting at a smaller firm, you gain so much more knowledge and hands on experience, that when you go to a larger firm they are more willing to hire you just based off of experience. When I first started my career, the first job I got was at a small accounting firm with one CPA, one attorney, and two other colleagues. Due to this smaller environment, I got to work directly with the CPA and attorney and gain not only basic knowledge, but in-depth knowledge on all topics. Since they were the "partners" at the firm, I got to see their side of work and shadow what they do on a daily as well. At the end of the day, don't be afraid to start small, sometimes that's what gets you to the higher places faster. I wish you the best in your career!
Scott Stafford
Accounting - Quality and Risk Management
5
Answers
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Updated
Scott’s Answer
As others have noted, there should be a number of public accounting firm internship opportunities as you progress in your academic path. However, typically a student is a couple years into their course work before those internship opportunities open up. In the meantime, any entry level accounting job opportunity - such as accounting clerk, accounts payable or receivable clerk, etc.. would be great experience. If you do not have an opportunity for full or part time employment during the semester, another thing you could do would be to work during holiday or summer breaks for an accounting temp service provider - like Robert Half to gain some experience. I did that over several holiday breaks and found it valuable. Accounting is a great career field - good luck!
Derek Gillespie
Accountant
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Derek’s Answer
Looking for an internship in accounting is a great option. Also, any sort of job in accounting or financing will help. As you progress through your major, you'll get exposure to different types of accounting (e.g., financial accounting, audit, tax). Getting that experience in college will help you decide what types of jobs you'll want to seek out in the future.
Daniel Zaninovich
Tax
3
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
When I was in college I made certain assumptions about how different accounting jobs would be like based on the class content, even the personality of the professor. I found that those assumptions didn't really give an accurate feel for what the work was actually like.
The best option is to get as much experience as you can, so you can form your own opinions. So get a tax internship, an audit internship, a summer job in the accounting department of a company, etc. To do all this, it is good to start early. An added benefit is that through all this early job experience you can work on soft skills that aren't always learned at the university itself.
Good luck! You got this!
The best option is to get as much experience as you can, so you can form your own opinions. So get a tax internship, an audit internship, a summer job in the accounting department of a company, etc. To do all this, it is good to start early. An added benefit is that through all this early job experience you can work on soft skills that aren't always learned at the university itself.
Good luck! You got this!
Crystal Lopez
accountant
3
Answers
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Updated
Crystal’s Answer
Hey Matthew!
Wishing you all the best as you start your first year of college!
Consider looking for summer internships at small accounting firms. You could also reach out to programs or non-profits to volunteer your skills in managing finances or assisting with bookkeeping. This will not only give you valuable experience but also let you contribute to a good cause.
Once college begins, explore on-campus job opportunities, like in the finance department or the bookstore. Many campuses have clubs and societies that can help you network with peers and professionals, and maybe even connect with future employers.
When I started my career, I volunteered at my local church, helping the finance team keep their books up to date. The next summer, I worked in the finance department of a gourmet supermarket, which led to a role in bookkeeping and eventually a position at a small public accounting firm. These experiences opened doors for me and deepened my understanding of public accounting.
Best of luck this fall!
Wishing you all the best as you start your first year of college!
Consider looking for summer internships at small accounting firms. You could also reach out to programs or non-profits to volunteer your skills in managing finances or assisting with bookkeeping. This will not only give you valuable experience but also let you contribute to a good cause.
Once college begins, explore on-campus job opportunities, like in the finance department or the bookstore. Many campuses have clubs and societies that can help you network with peers and professionals, and maybe even connect with future employers.
When I started my career, I volunteered at my local church, helping the finance team keep their books up to date. The next summer, I worked in the finance department of a gourmet supermarket, which led to a role in bookkeeping and eventually a position at a small public accounting firm. These experiences opened doors for me and deepened my understanding of public accounting.
Best of luck this fall!
Pedro Olivo
Supervisor
8
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Pedro’s Answer
Remote accounting, intermetal preparer assistance, junior financial analyst, grant accounting, non-profit accounting, and financial intern.
All these options are great choices! Enjoy what you do, have fun, and find a balance in life. Remember, you only have one life, so it's not just about work!
All these options are great choices! Enjoy what you do, have fun, and find a balance in life. Remember, you only have one life, so it's not just about work!
Mussawer Jamili
Auditor
4
Answers
Costa Mesa, California
Updated
Mussawer’s Answer
An accounting internship in audit or tax is a great way to gain experience while you're in college. These internships typically last 1-3 months and take place in the summer or winter. If you want part-time experience during college, there are many options. You could be a treasurer or bookkeeper for a school organization, volunteer for VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), or work as a teaching assistant for an accounting professor. These opportunities are excellent for gaining experience and you can start now!
Anima Tuladhar
Tax
2
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Anima’s Answer
Give it a go with an internship in the public accounting field! It will open doors to different experiences in the corporate world. Plus, you'll get the chance to see if you enjoy Tax, Audit, Consulting, or maybe something else entirely.
Kimberly Servello
Senior Manager - Family Office
3
Answers
Fort Myers, Florida
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
As an accounting major, you have a world of opportunities waiting for you! Look into roles at public accounting firms, especially the BIG 4, and explore private CPA firms, as well as tax and audit positions. You can also consider becoming a financial advisor, financial analyst, investment advisor, or working in family offices. If you have a business idea, entrepreneurial ventures are an exciting path too. The possibilities are limitless! Follow your interests and passion, and you'll find a career that makes you happy. Best of luck this fall!
Kee Won Hahn
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kee Won’s Answer
Hi! First, congratulations and wishing you the best as you start college!
There are many ways to learn more about the accounting field. I recommend joining your university's Accounting Society. Additionally, network and connect with accounting individuals. Networking helps you understand more about the accounting field, firm's opportunities, and if a specific opportunity/job is the right match for you. Lastly, I would begin exploring accounting internships. Internships will help learn you more about the job and the accounting profession.
There are many ways to learn more about the accounting field. I recommend joining your university's Accounting Society. Additionally, network and connect with accounting individuals. Networking helps you understand more about the accounting field, firm's opportunities, and if a specific opportunity/job is the right match for you. Lastly, I would begin exploring accounting internships. Internships will help learn you more about the job and the accounting profession.
Haowen Kan
1
Answer
Updated
Haowen’s Answer
Most accounting students work either in the firm or in the industry. I would suggest you to do internship in both fields and see which work mode / team atmosphere you prefer and decide where you want to develop your career after graduation. From my experience, you will continuously learn a lot from firm and work with different people & team, but the hours could be heavier. In industry, it's more likely that you will in charge of same thing and work with same people, and you'll tend to have a better work life balance. You can think about which way you prefer and make the decision from there.
Bill Liu
Audit
6
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Bill’s Answer
I would recommended getting an internship in an accounting firm, or looking for opportunities for entry level accountant positions.
Santiago Reina
Auditor
2
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Santiago’s Answer
Any financial internship you can do will help you gain an understanding. You already have lots of options so I would say stay away from governmental accounting (unless you want to focus on that) it's a niche
Jin Lin
Accounting
2
Answers
Garden City, New York
Updated
Jin’s Answer
I would recommend get an internship with an accounting firm and improve your real-life experience.
NiCole Rosado, MPA
Accountant
3
Answers
Spotswood, New Jersey
Updated
NiCole’s Answer
I suggest finding an internship or part-time job at a small CPA firm. This is a great way to get real-world experience from the start. Plus, it will help you figure out which skills you need to improve before trying out different specialty areas.
emily leary
Finance
2
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
emily’s Answer
Consider applying for internships at an accounting firm. You can choose from different types, like auditing, tax, or investment audits. Some firms even offer internships that let you rotate through these areas.
Brittany Urbina
Operations Senior Manager
2
Answers
Manteca, California
Updated
Brittany’s Answer
I suggest trying to get an internship with an accounting firm if you can. Lots of firms have summer programs that are great for learning and gaining experience. Make sure to plan ahead, because firms start organizing their internships and picking candidates long before the programs start.
I began my accounting career at a small CPA firm during tax season, helping with tax returns after school. This opened doors to other chances beyond tax work, like accounting and auditing at the same firm. Best of luck!
I began my accounting career at a small CPA firm during tax season, helping with tax returns after school. This opened doors to other chances beyond tax work, like accounting and auditing at the same firm. Best of luck!
Gregory Gobran
Senior Analyst
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
Begin by securing an internship.
Jamey Sepulveda
Accounting
4
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Jamey’s Answer
I would suggest looking for internships or part-time jobs at local accounting firms. You'd be amazed at how much experience you can gain and how much it helps with understanding the concepts you're learning in school.
Christopher Gotz
Accountant
5
Answers
Fresno, California
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
To start a career at an Accounting or Consulting Firm, aim for internships. Apply early, as finance and accounting internships often have earlier deadlines. Reach out to local professionals to learn about the field and what a typical day involves. Once you understand basic accounting procedures, search for entry-level jobs like bookkeeping and clerking.
Saisri Manchala
Public Accounting
3
Answers
Fremont, California
Updated
Saisri’s Answer
Apply for an internship at one of the Big Four accounting firms. Companies like Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG offer summer programs for college students. These programs give you a great start in the field and can open doors to future internships.
Faimie Fang
accounting
3
Answers
Culver City, California
Updated
Faimie’s Answer
I would recommend getting an internship in accounting or finance. I think getting into book keeping might be helpful too because that really allows you to see how the financials are made and what you're actually looking at when you get to the other side (tax/audit)
Garrett Moore
Auditor/Accounting
1
Answer
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Garrett’s Answer
The best way to get into accounting as a career is seeing all opportunities that it has to offer. I would recommend trying to do a tax and audit internship. I would also recommend doing an internship at a big 4 firm, a mid-size firm, and maybe a local smaller accounting firm in your college town or hometown. By doing this you will gain some knowledge related to the type of work you like and the firm size that works best for you.
Delete Comment
Flag Comment