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What is the biggest mistake that undergraduate accounting majors make in their first two years of college that hurts their chances of landing a Big 4 internship and even a Big 4 job after graduating from college?

I am a current high school senior committed to a large university for Fall 2026. My goal is to land a Big 4 internship by my junior-year summer, so I have a better chance of receiving return offers from companies like PWC and KPMG.

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Alexis’s Answer

To build off Janay's answer, grades do matter. Many Big 4 accounting firms have a GPA minimum requirement to get in the door and have your resume looked at.

Once you have your grades in order, then try to get involved in other groups you are interested in on campus - whatever that may be. Many schools have accounting clubs, which would be a great opportunity to meet with others who are planning to enter the field. Plus make sure to attend your schools "Meet the Firms" every year, even your freshman year. This is a great opportunity to talk to recruiters and employees from many firms, including the Big 4, to get a feel for which firm would be a good fit for you. Some of the companies even offer summer leadership programs or one day events for students in freshman or sophomore year. These allow you to get your foot in the door and build your resume further.

Overall, have fun and be yourself! The rest will figure itself out.
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Michelle’s Answer

I work at PwC in midtown Manhattan. I got the start internship and then the assurance start internship, probably because of my GPA and applying really early! Since you're a high school senior, you have the chance to get ahead by applying for internships for your freshman or sophomore summer. You earn the most money in the winter because of overtime pay, and you gain the best experience since that's when the real work happens. You'll learn all about the audit and busy season, which is the best time to learn. Summer is more relaxed, perfect for networking and bonding. Apply to internships as soon as possible! Also, try to stand out by joining clubs in high school and college or having side jobs in tax or bookkeeping/office work. Good luck!
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Janay’s Answer

When I was going to college, the best advice I got was your first year GPA is the most important. While you should enjoy a social life, your freshman year GPA is your starting point. Starting off with a high GPA is worth it because raising your GPA doesn't happen overnight. I knew a lot of people trying to work twice as hard during junior year to make up for their freshman year grades. Now if grades aren't a worry, I would join an accounting organization if your school has any. The Big 4 usually will recruit through those organizations and you can start building relationships with the recruiters early so come junior year you can interview and get an offer. The Big 4 also have some multi-year internship programs you may qualify for.
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Amanda’s Answer

Landing a job at a Big 4 firm is becoming more challenging, but don't worry—there are steps you can take to boost your chances. Focus on keeping your GPA high in your early years, as classes will become tougher later on. Companies are starting to recruit earlier, so it's important to attend as many campus events as possible to meet firms and their professionals. With a strong GPA and leadership activities, your challenge will shift from wondering if you'll get a Big 4 internship to deciding which firm you like the most!
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