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Is an internship the best way to enter the accounting profession? #Spring26

I'm majoring in accounting this upcoming fall and would just like an answer to this question. I plan to become a CPA in the future.

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David’s Answer

Internships are a fantastic opportunity to build connections, experience, and understanding of the roles outside the classroom. The day-to-day of accounting can feel nothing like classroom simulated problems depending on the role. If you are able to secure one, make the most of it to both build your network and gain a greater understanding on if that company or role is a good fit for your goals!

It's not the end of anything if you are not able to get an internship with the company that you want to work for. Speaking for public accounting specifically, experienced hires are extremely common and you can end up where you want even without an internship. Good luck!
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Khalid’s Answer

Hi! I think it depends on what professions you want to take up once you receive your degree. If you want to work at a public accounting firm I would say an internship and having your CPA are super important and will help you get jobs at those firms. If you want other kinds of accounting jobs I think building up some of your technical skills and experience is sometimes more important than having an internship or your CPA, but every accountant should strive to become a CPA just because of all the doors it can open! I think accounting students get really caught up in the idea of getting an internship and working for a big public accounting firm, but that is not the end all be all of accounting and there's so many cool and unique paths you can take, so don't stress out too much about it.

Best of luck!
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Stephanie’s Answer

Internships are a great way to get a glimpse into the accounting world and give you an idea as to what specific type of accounting you are most interested in. Another added benefit is the connections that you will be making with other professionals. It isn't the only way into the field, but can be a helpful route especially if your trajectory is strong toward upward mobility.

An alternative might be to consider that you are at a point in your life that is unique in that you can do a job outside of the career path you choose without worry of reflecting gaps in your professional resume. If there is something you've always dreamed of doing or places you've always wanted to travel using that same time to take on roles that allow you to have those experiences could be something you look back on later with gratitude.
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Dwight’s Answer

Hi Cordasia,

I hope all is well! This is a great question! With your plans to major in accounting and become a CPA, internships are one of the best ways to enter the profession. They give you real exposure to what accounting work looks like, help you build practical skills, and often lead directly to full-time offers at firms. Many accounting firms use internships as a source of recruitment and can help you align based on your interests within the accounting field.

That said, the goal isn’t just to get an internship, but to consistently build relevant experience and show growth over time. If you do not get an internship right away, focus on gaining exposure through part time roles, leadership positions, or academic projects that demonstrate your interests within in accounting. As long as you are developing your skills and staying involved, you will find yourself in a strong position when internship recruitment comes around.

I hope this information helps answer your question. Please reach out with any other questions you may have. Hope you talk soon!

Thank you,
Dwight
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Shay’s Answer

Hello! An internship is a fantastic opportunity to explore the world of accounting at a firm. As an intern, you'll experience what daily tasks are like for a full-time professional. You'll also have the chance to work on real client projects and make a meaningful impact. I highly encourage you to apply for an internship. Some colleges have programs where you can intern during the fall or spring semester, which is worth considering. If that's not available, many firms offer valuable summer internships too.
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Katie’s Answer

Applying for an accounting internship is a great idea. It helps you learn about the field and meet professionals who can guide you. You can ask them questions to see if accounting is the right path for you. Internships often lead to full-time jobs. If you're planning to go to graduate school, you might intern after college before starting your graduate program, like I did when I got my MSA. If not, it's best to intern between your junior and senior years of college.
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