Are you a student looking to gain practical experience in the field of accounting? An internship is undoubtedly the perfect way to start your career. Accounting internships give students the necessary exposure to the accounting profession, experience, skills, and knowledge required for a successful career. Interns learn from professionals in the industry, build their networks, and get a head-start in the accounting job market after graduation. In this article, we will discuss why accounting internships are important, what they entail, and how to secure one.
How to Find the Best Accounting Internships
Internships are an essential part of the accounting student’s professional journey. Not only do they provide practical experience, but they also offer an opportunity to network and make connections in the industry. Finding the perfect internship can be a bit challenging, but with the right strategies, you can land the gig you’ve been dreaming of.
1. Start Your Search Early
One of the first things to keep in mind when looking for accounting internships is to start your search early. While some companies may have late deadlines, the competition is typically high. The best internships are usually taken early, so make sure you begin your search in the fall, at the latest.
2. Check Out Your School’s Career Center
Your school’s career center is another good place to look for accounting internships. Most schools have job postings and career fairs, which can be a great way to learn about opportunities and network with recruiters.
3. Utilize Online Job Boards
Online job boards are another great resource for finding accounting internships. Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn all have search filters specifically for internships. You can also set up job alerts, so you’re notified when new internship opportunities become available.
4. Tap into Your Network
Networking is one of the most powerful tools you can use when looking for accounting internships. Reach out to professors, former colleagues, and friends in the industry to let them know you’re looking for an internship. They may be able to put you in touch with someone who can help.
5. Attend Accounting Conferences and Events
Attending accounting conferences and events can be a great way to network and learn about new internship opportunities. Be prepared with your elevator pitch and plenty of business cards.
6. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
When applying for accounting internships, make sure you tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific position. Highlight any relevant coursework, skills, or experience that make you a strong candidate.
7. Prepare for Interviews
Preparing for interviews is essential to landing an accounting internship. Research the company beforehand and practice your responses to common interview questions. Dress professionally and arrive on time.
8. Follow Up
Following up after an interview or submitting an application can make the difference between getting selected for an internship or not. Send a thank-you note or email, and ask about the next steps in the process.
9. Be Persistent
Finding the perfect accounting internship can take time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you receive rejections or don’t hear back from companies. Keep applying and refining your skills, and the right opportunity will come along.
10. Take Advantage of Your Internship Experience
Once you’ve landed an accounting internship, make the most of the experience. Ask questions, learn from your colleagues, and make connections. You never know where your internship may lead in the future.
What to Expect from an Accounting Internship
If you are looking for an accounting internship, you may wonder what to expect before you start your search. Here are ten things to keep in mind as you embark on your internship experience:
1. Training and Onboarding Processes
Most accounting internships come with training programs, which vary depending on the organization you work for. These programs can range from one day to a week or more, and may include classroom training, online sessions, or on-the-job shadowing.
2. Exposure to Different Parts of the Accounting Process
While you may have an idea of what accounting entails, an internship offers the chance to see the different facets of the profession firsthand. You may be involved in accounts payable, receivable, payroll, or even tax preparations. The more exposure you get, the better-rounded your experience will be.
3. Mentorship Opportunities
During an accounting internship, you will likely have a direct supervisor who will oversee your work and can answer any questions you may have about the industry. Building a solid relationship with your supervisor can lead to mentorship opportunities and guidance that will be useful as you pursue your accounting career.
4. Networking Opportunities
Networking is essential in any industry, and accounting is no exception. Your internship provides ample opportunities to connect with professionals in the field, including potential future employers.
5. Professional Development Opportunities
Many accounting internships include professional development opportunities, such as attending conferences or workshops. These opportunities can help you learn more about the industry and can be a valuable addition to your resume.
6. Real-World Experience
Internships are an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Working with different professionals in various situations can broaden your knowledge and skillset.
7. Exposure to Accounting Technology
Accounting technology is constantly evolving. During your internship, you may be exposed to accounting tools or software that you have not encountered before. This experience can help you stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies.
8. Experiencing the Day-to-Day Life in the Accounting Industry
Accounting internships offer the chance to see the day-to-day life of accountants. You will be in a corporate setting, and you will participate in various tasks and projects as part of the accounting process.
9. Increased Confidence and Self-Assurance
An accounting internship can boost your confidence by giving you hands-on experience that you likely wouldn’t get in an academic setting. You will have to tackle new challenges, work alongside experienced professionals, and take on responsibilities that will help you build self-assurance.
10. Potential Job Opportunities
Many accounting firms have a pipeline for intern to full-time employment. So, if you impress your internship supervisor and colleagues, you could be in line for a job offer after graduation. Even if you don’t receive an offer, the experience and network you built during your internship could help you land a job in the future.
In conclusion, an accounting internship can provide you with a wealth of experiences and opportunities. You will gain exposure to different parts of the accounting profession, learn about emerging trends, build valuable relationships, and gain experience that can help you in your future accounting career.
Benefits of Accounting Internships
Accounting internships can provide a valuable experience for students and recent graduates seeking to work in the finance and accounting industries. Here are some of the benefits of participating in an accounting internship:
1. Gain Hands-On Experience
Accounting internships give students and recent graduates the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting. Interns can work on projects ranging from bookkeeping and financial analysis to tax preparation and audit support. This hands-on experience can help them develop practical skills and gain a better understanding of how accounting works in a business environment.
2. Build a Professional Network
Internships provide an excellent opportunity to meet professionals in the finance and accounting industries. Interns can learn from experienced professionals and make valuable connections that can help them secure future job opportunities. Building a professional network can also lead to mentorship and career guidance.
3. Increase Career Opportunities
Accounting internships can open up new career opportunities for students and recent graduates. The experience gained during an internship can set them apart from other candidates when applying for full-time positions. Many employers prefer candidates with relevant work experience, and internships can provide this experience.
4. Improve Soft Skills
Accounting internships can help interns develop and improve their soft skills. Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management are important in any professional setting, and internships provide a safe environment for interns to work on these skills. Improving these skills can have a positive impact on job performance and career advancement.
5. Earn Academic Credit
Many accounting internships offer academic credit to students who participate. This credit can help students progress towards their degree while gaining valuable work experience. Academic credit can also help students save money on tuition costs.
| Company | Location | Requirements | Duration | Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deloitte | Nationwide | 3.0 GPA, majoring in accounting | 8-12 weeks | $20/hr |
| Ernst & Young | Nationwide | 3.2 GPA, majoring in accounting | 10-12 weeks | $22/hr |
| KPMG | Nationwide | 3.0 GPA, majoring in accounting | 8-12 weeks | $21/hr |
If you’re looking for experience in the finance industry, consider searching for accounting internships that can give you hands-on training and valuable skills for your future career.
Pros of Accounting Internships
1. Gain Real-World Experience
Internships give students their first glimpse into the real world of accounting. They learn the crucial skills in the industry that classroom learning simply can’t offer, such as how to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, work collaboratively with others, and handle real accounting tasks. Interns also engage with professional accountants and receive feedback on their performances, which prepares them for the working environment.
2. Networking Opportunities
Internships provide a great opportunity to network with professionals in the accounting industry. Interns get to meet people working in different roles and organizations, which allows them to establish new connections that can ultimately lead to job offers or references in the future. Building connections with professionals in the industry also help students learn about the career prospects and expectations within the field.
3. Skill Development
Internships provide the time and resources to develop skills in a specific field. An internship in accounting not only improves skills in finance and accounting, but may also improve communication, collaboration, problem-solving and analytical skills. Interns are able to practice critical thinking, financial analysis, research and communication skills in real-world situations, which prepares them for future job opportunities.
4. Increase Knowledge of Accounting
A major advantage of accounting internships is the opportunity to learn more about accounting methods and software systems used in the field. Accounting interns gain insights into current accounting practices, theories and technologies that are vital to the field. This knowledge prepares them to tackle the more complex accounting tasks they’ll encounter in their future careers.
5. Resume Strengthening
Internships can significantly boost a person’s resume. You can add the experience, skills, and knowledge acquired during your internship to your resume, making you a more desirable candidate for future jobs in the accounting industry. Employers often look for students who have taken the initiative to gain experience in their field, and as an intern, you’d be able to show just that.
6. Potential for Job Offers
An internship in accounting can lead to job offers from the company or organization where interns work. If an intern performs well and shows potential, the company may see value in offering such an individual a job after graduation. In fact, many companies use internships to recruit top talent, and having the opportunity to intern with a company you admire could lead to full-time employment in the future.
7. Gain Work Ethics and Professionalism
Accounting internships provide an opportunity to learn and develop workplace ethics and professionalism. Interns learn how to be effective team players and communicate within the organization. The working environment instills strong work ethics that are necessary for a person’s personal and professional growth.
8. Financial Compensation
Many accounting internships offer compensation in the form of a stipend or salary, which helps students financially. Even if an internship does not offer any financial compensation, it can still be a valuable experience. Students can use their lack of financial compensation as an opportunity to focus on learning experiences and skill development.
9. Gain Industry-specific Knowledge
Accounting internships provide an opportunity for students to learn industry-specific knowledge such as tax laws, accounting regulations and more. The practical experience gained during an internship prepares students for the real-world of accounting, which enhances their value to hiring companies.
10. Start to Create a Professional Portfolio
Internships provide an ideal opportunity to start creating a professional portfolio of work that will showcase your achievements and abilities. This portfolio can include projects and reports that you’ve worked on during the internship and could demonstrate how you’ve made a difference while working with the organization. A professional portfolio can be a strong tool when applying for future jobs or for showcasing your skills to a potential employer.
Time to get started!
Thanks for reading about accounting internships! It’s never too early to start planning for your future in the accounting world and finding internships is a great way to get started. Remember, internships offer invaluable experience, networking opportunities, and insights into the industry that you can’t get anywhere else. So don’t hesitate to start researching and applying for internships today! And be sure to come back and check out our site again for more helpful insights, advice and information. Happy searching!