13 answers
Ava
Student
New York, NY
1
Question
Asked
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What are the absolute best steps during college to help secure a job offer by college graduation?
I will be a freshman in college in the fall of 2026. I plan to complete my bachelors and my graduate degree within a five year program for accounting and finance. I’ve always been good at all types of math but I wanted to focus on math with more daily “real world” applications. I also wanted a good paying job so I can comfortably take care of myself as an adult.
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13 answers
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Ava. You need to focus on excelling academically, gaining real-world experience, building a professional network, and developing both technical and soft skills.
Doing well in your classes will help you understand the field and show employers that you take your education seriously. Since you already enjoy math and want to apply it to real-world situations, your accounting and finance courses will be a good match. These subjects rely on numbers, but they also teach you how to solve real problems that businesses face every day. Strong grades also help you compete for internships, which are one of the most important steps toward landing a job after graduation.
Internships give you hands-on experience and help you learn what working in accounting or finance is really like. Companies often use internships to recruit future employees, so doing well in an internship can lead directly to a job offer.
Networking is another major factor in getting hired. This means building relationships with professors, classmates, alumni, and professionals in your field. Attending career fairs, joining student business clubs, and connecting with people on LinkedIn can all help you meet individuals who may open doors for you later.
You should also take advantage of your school's career services. They can help you create a strong resume, prepare for interviews, and learn how to communicate professionally. These skills matter just as much as technical knowledge, because employers want someone who can communicate clearly and work well with others.
Throughout college, try to learn practical skills that will make you more competitive. For accounting and finance, this includes becoming comfortable with Excel, financial software, and possibly even basic data analysis tools. These skills show employers you're ready for modern, technology-driven workplaces. All the best.
Doing well in your classes will help you understand the field and show employers that you take your education seriously. Since you already enjoy math and want to apply it to real-world situations, your accounting and finance courses will be a good match. These subjects rely on numbers, but they also teach you how to solve real problems that businesses face every day. Strong grades also help you compete for internships, which are one of the most important steps toward landing a job after graduation.
Internships give you hands-on experience and help you learn what working in accounting or finance is really like. Companies often use internships to recruit future employees, so doing well in an internship can lead directly to a job offer.
Networking is another major factor in getting hired. This means building relationships with professors, classmates, alumni, and professionals in your field. Attending career fairs, joining student business clubs, and connecting with people on LinkedIn can all help you meet individuals who may open doors for you later.
You should also take advantage of your school's career services. They can help you create a strong resume, prepare for interviews, and learn how to communicate professionally. These skills matter just as much as technical knowledge, because employers want someone who can communicate clearly and work well with others.
Throughout college, try to learn practical skills that will make you more competitive. For accounting and finance, this includes becoming comfortable with Excel, financial software, and possibly even basic data analysis tools. These skills show employers you're ready for modern, technology-driven workplaces. All the best.
I appreciate your support, Wong
Ava
This response has a lot of great suggestions and I think they are all important. I totally agree with the practical skills. Today that would include some sort of AI understanding and possible developement. Look into how is AI used in finance. There has been a real push and training in my company at all levels including Finance and Accounting to use AI to do work. That means me creating or coming up with ideas to shift work to AI and free up time for more analysis. Good luck.
John Bolyard
Thanks for the thoughtful response!
Wong Loke Yuen
Kristin Weir
Inclusion, Sustainability, and Social Impact
2
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kristin’s Answer
As someone who graduated with a degree in accounting and finance with a goal to live in NYC, I understand firsthand how important it is to be intentional about preparing for your career while still in college!
First, focus on maintaining strong grades. Employers value academic performance because it demonstrates discipline and a solid grasp of foundational knowledge. But grades alone aren’t enough. I took advantage of career fairs, networking events, and industry conferences. These are prime opportunities to meet recruiters, learn about different companies, and get your foot in the door.
Internships are absolutely critical. I took internships with large corporations like PwC, which gave me real-world experience, expanded my network, and provided insight into company cultures and expectations. Companies highly value hands-on experience, and having internships on your resume can make all the difference when applying for full-time roles. But you don't have to do an internship at a larger corporation!
Finally, don’t get too caught up in finding the “perfect” internship or job in your mind. Sometimes, the path isn’t linear, and you might end up somewhere unexpected and that’s okay. You’ll find the right opportunities that align with your goals and values as you grow.
By committing to good grades, actively networking, gaining practical experience, and staying flexible, you’ll put yourself in the best position to secure a job offer by the time you graduate, ready to support yourself comfortably as an adult. Good luck, you got this!
First, focus on maintaining strong grades. Employers value academic performance because it demonstrates discipline and a solid grasp of foundational knowledge. But grades alone aren’t enough. I took advantage of career fairs, networking events, and industry conferences. These are prime opportunities to meet recruiters, learn about different companies, and get your foot in the door.
Internships are absolutely critical. I took internships with large corporations like PwC, which gave me real-world experience, expanded my network, and provided insight into company cultures and expectations. Companies highly value hands-on experience, and having internships on your resume can make all the difference when applying for full-time roles. But you don't have to do an internship at a larger corporation!
Finally, don’t get too caught up in finding the “perfect” internship or job in your mind. Sometimes, the path isn’t linear, and you might end up somewhere unexpected and that’s okay. You’ll find the right opportunities that align with your goals and values as you grow.
By committing to good grades, actively networking, gaining practical experience, and staying flexible, you’ll put yourself in the best position to secure a job offer by the time you graduate, ready to support yourself comfortably as an adult. Good luck, you got this!
Katie Sandonato
Human Capital Manager at PwC
5
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Katie’s Answer
Hi Ava! It's great that you're planning ahead! Joining business societies is a fantastic way to get involved. Also, connect with classmates to learn about their experiences and career ideas. Speak with your professors and visit the career center soon to learn about internships, as they often start earlier than expected. Attend as many networking events as you can!
Lauren Fernandez
Recruiting Senior Manager
3
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
Hi! Staying focused on your studies and grades is important. It's also a good idea to look for internships and get involved in networking on campus. These activities can help you learn about different companies and fields you might want to work in. As someone in recruiting, I recommend building your network both on campus and on LinkedIn to increase your exposure.
Vicky Jean-Ali
Risk Professional
10
Answers
Alexandria, Virginia
Updated
Vicky’s Answer
Hello there,
I recommend that you intern as early as possible. Make a list of firms and finance positions that you would like to work in. For example, you can intern with a financial advisor, this will help you develop the skills needed to be a financial advisor and you will find out whether, this role is optimal for you. Do the same for Accounting.
Skill development is very important. This will allow you to build a strong resume. Once you zero in on the role that you would like to pursue, I recommend that you tailor the type of internships to this role.
Finally as everyone here has recommended, build a strong network, including getting a mentor and maximize your access to the career services that your school offers.
Hope this helps!
I recommend that you intern as early as possible. Make a list of firms and finance positions that you would like to work in. For example, you can intern with a financial advisor, this will help you develop the skills needed to be a financial advisor and you will find out whether, this role is optimal for you. Do the same for Accounting.
Skill development is very important. This will allow you to build a strong resume. Once you zero in on the role that you would like to pursue, I recommend that you tailor the type of internships to this role.
Finally as everyone here has recommended, build a strong network, including getting a mentor and maximize your access to the career services that your school offers.
Hope this helps!
Zach Smith
Anti-Money Laundering Compliance
4
Answers
Columbus, Ohio
Updated
Zach’s Answer
Hi Ava,
I agree with all the feedback you've already received. I also recommend finding out which tools and software are commonly used in the jobs you want. Learning about these tools can really help you. For example, Power BI, Alteryx, and Tableau are great tools used in accounting and finance. If you earn a Data Analyst or Power BI credential from Microsoft before you graduate, it can really show your skills with practical tools and give you an edge when applying for jobs. This can set you apart from others.
I agree with all the feedback you've already received. I also recommend finding out which tools and software are commonly used in the jobs you want. Learning about these tools can really help you. For example, Power BI, Alteryx, and Tableau are great tools used in accounting and finance. If you earn a Data Analyst or Power BI credential from Microsoft before you graduate, it can really show your skills with practical tools and give you an edge when applying for jobs. This can set you apart from others.
Kelly Bentz
Human Resources Director
9
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
Hello! I'm thrilled that you're starting a journey in accounting. My top advice is to get involved in campus activities early on. Look for accounting-related organizations or clubs, like the Student Accounting Society or Beta Alpha Psi. These groups often connect with professionals in the field and invite alumni to meet students and build relationships. They also inform you about events on campus or online that can help you make valuable connections for internships or full-time jobs. Internships are a great way to gain practical experience. Best of luck!
Jennie Gnesin
Finance Senior Manager
2
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Jennie’s Answer
Doing well in school is important, but making connections is also key to finding job opportunities. You might meet someone who helps you get a job, and you'll discover new ways to promote yourself and learn about opportunities you didn't know about!
Join clubs, attend events, and meet as many people as possible!
Join clubs, attend events, and meet as many people as possible!
Jennifer Balta
Acceleration Center Leader
9
Answers
Rochester, New York
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
1. Get real experience as early as you can
Any kind of hands-on experience helps. Internships are great, but so are part-time jobs, research work, campus roles, or volunteering if it’s related to what you want to do. Employers mostly want to see that you understand what the work is actually like and that you’ve tried it in some form.
2. Talk to people before you need something
A lot of jobs come from conversations, not applications. Get to know professors, advisors, alumni, and recruiters early. Ask questions, stay curious, and follow up once in a while. These relationships add up over time and often lead to opportunities you wouldn’t see on a job board.
3. Focus on skills you’ll actually use
Look at job postings in the field you want and notice what keeps showing up. Then build those skills through classes, projects, or side work. Being able to say “here’s how I used this skill” matters more than just listing it on your resume.
4. Treat internships like extended interviews
If you get an internship, show up on time, ask questions, and be open to feedback. People remember who was reliable and easy to work with. A lot of full-time offers go to interns who showed effort and curiosity, not just raw talent.
5. Start earlier than feels necessary
Job searching usually starts sooner than people expect. Go to career fairs even if you feel awkward, apply before you feel fully ready, and practice interviewing early. It gets easier with reps, and early starts take pressure off later.
6. Practice explaining your story
You don’t have to sound impressive, just clear. Get comfortable talking about what you’ve done, what you learned, and why it matters. Confidence usually comes from knowing your examples, not from trying to sell yourself.
7. Take care of yourself along the way
Burning out helps no one. Pace yourself, ask for help when you need it, and don’t assume setbacks mean you’re doing it wrong. Small, steady progress goes a long way.
Any kind of hands-on experience helps. Internships are great, but so are part-time jobs, research work, campus roles, or volunteering if it’s related to what you want to do. Employers mostly want to see that you understand what the work is actually like and that you’ve tried it in some form.
2. Talk to people before you need something
A lot of jobs come from conversations, not applications. Get to know professors, advisors, alumni, and recruiters early. Ask questions, stay curious, and follow up once in a while. These relationships add up over time and often lead to opportunities you wouldn’t see on a job board.
3. Focus on skills you’ll actually use
Look at job postings in the field you want and notice what keeps showing up. Then build those skills through classes, projects, or side work. Being able to say “here’s how I used this skill” matters more than just listing it on your resume.
4. Treat internships like extended interviews
If you get an internship, show up on time, ask questions, and be open to feedback. People remember who was reliable and easy to work with. A lot of full-time offers go to interns who showed effort and curiosity, not just raw talent.
5. Start earlier than feels necessary
Job searching usually starts sooner than people expect. Go to career fairs even if you feel awkward, apply before you feel fully ready, and practice interviewing early. It gets easier with reps, and early starts take pressure off later.
6. Practice explaining your story
You don’t have to sound impressive, just clear. Get comfortable talking about what you’ve done, what you learned, and why it matters. Confidence usually comes from knowing your examples, not from trying to sell yourself.
7. Take care of yourself along the way
Burning out helps no one. Pace yourself, ask for help when you need it, and don’t assume setbacks mean you’re doing it wrong. Small, steady progress goes a long way.
Sajid Hakim
Finance
9
Answers
West Bloomfield Township, Michigan
Updated
Sajid’s Answer
Hi Ava,
Besides doing well in your studies, two key things can really help you get a job after college: networking and internships.
I know you've heard this before. While internships are great, they're not always in your control. Networking, however, is something you can fully manage. It will not only assist you when you graduate but also throughout your entire career.
Hope this helps! Wishing you lots of luck.
Besides doing well in your studies, two key things can really help you get a job after college: networking and internships.
I know you've heard this before. While internships are great, they're not always in your control. Networking, however, is something you can fully manage. It will not only assist you when you graduate but also throughout your entire career.
Hope this helps! Wishing you lots of luck.
Thank you, Sajid!
Ava
Dana Cobb
Internal Audit
3
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Dana’s Answer
My answers may mirror some already given, with a little more twist. I definitely agree to work with your campus career services. If you have clubs on campus for Accounting and Finance, get involved. On my campus, we had both Accounting Club and Beta Alpha Psi (honors accounting), I'm sure there are finance clubs as well. Build your network, this includes your professors, your fellow students, and local business resources (the clubs can help with this). Look for scholarships provided by local businesses. Take advantage of on-campus recruiting when you are close to graduation.
Finally, try to explore different branches for your major through your internship. I first did an accounting internship, then I did a finance internship, and I ended up going into auditing after graduation. Auditing fit my personality and character traits much better than either accounting or finance. Best of luck to you!
Finally, try to explore different branches for your major through your internship. I first did an accounting internship, then I did a finance internship, and I ended up going into auditing after graduation. Auditing fit my personality and character traits much better than either accounting or finance. Best of luck to you!
Thank you for giving me advice.
Ava
Dana Hunt
PwC | Partner, Insurance Risk & Capital Leader
15
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Dana’s Answer
Pursue an internship early in your college career with an audit firm or company that has active intern program. If you like math, consider actuarial science - check out beanactuary.org to learn more. Salaries are attractive with many career options. To obtain a job as an entry level actuary at a company, intern experience and at least two exams passed have a high success rate of being hired full time after college.
Thank you! I will have to look into that career field as an option!
Ava
Maryanne Perreira
Finance Director
1
Answer
Clayton, California
Updated
Maryanne’s Answer
Try connecting with future employers through clubs and organizations at your college. When I was in college, I joined the Accounting Club, where employees from accounting firms often came. It was a great way to meet people and learn about the field. Later, I became an officer in the club, which gave me leadership experience. It also helped me find out about internship opportunities.
It was through networking via the accounting club that I achieved a position with my first employer.
It was through networking via the accounting club that I achieved a position with my first employer.