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Is it even worth it to look for an internship for this summer?

I was looking for an accounting internship but with #COVID-19 is it even worth my time?

#accounting #internship

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Subject: Career question for you

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Alexandra’s Answer

Erick - There's no way to know what the future holds, but one thing is true: if you do not apply for an internship, you will not get an internship. I would encourage you to continue applying for summer internships because many companies are still hiring and certainly some companies in your area offer essential services and will be business as usual (hopefully with many employees working from home, including interns). Working virtually is the new reality for a lot of people, but this was true even before COVID-19. I would anticipate a delay in hearing back from companies, but eventually things will go back to normal and businesses will continue with their planned projects. Stay positive. Stay healthy. Good luck.
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Sophia Nicole’s Answer

Hi Erick,

While I echo everyone's responses thus far and encourage you to continue searching for an internship, given how unpredictable the future is, I also want to provide you some advice should your internship search fall through: Don't give up on yourself. Take an online course, whether for-credit through your university or simply free courses through Coursera offered by many universities or companies around the world. Seek opportunities to earn a certificate, start an online portfolio, discover a new hobby, volunteer in your community, or invest time into something you're passionate about. A future employer will value a candidate who did not let an obstacle keep them from bettering themself. We're all going through this together, so don't stop grinding no matter what's happening in the world!

Here's to hoping for better days ahead :)
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Ricky’s Answer

Hello, thank you for asking and sharing this concern. I think that internships are extremely valuable and beneficial. In the wake of Coronavirus, you must always look toward the future. We are not sure what will happen in the upcoming weeks but we must stay hopeful. I have had 5 internships in my youth. They have helped me secure jobs and gain valuable experience in journalism. Apply! Keep searching!
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Omid’s Answer

Hey Erick,

I think it's always worth looking for an internship! I have an anticipated internship this summer and I'm concerned too about how COVID may effect it. No one really knows definitively how COVID is going to change these plans. In addition to that, every company will also be handling things differently. Some internships I applied for are continuing their interview process, while others are not. I would definitely suggest you continue to look and apply. Good luck!
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Syed’s Answer

Hi Erick,

It's always worth it to put your time into an internship search and get that experience. If you can find an accounting firm that is offering a remote internship or even some short term remote training, it's worth your while. I know PwC gave a bunch of their interns full time offers and cancelled the internship in favor of a 2 week paid remote training course. You can also have a great interview story about continuing to pursue your passions in the face of adversity.

I will say, though, that employers will likely adjust their expectations about gaps in experience as the COVID-19 situation continues. This summer could be seen as a "write-off" of sorts for recruiters.
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Stephen’s Answer

Hey Eric!

I would say it's absolutely worth looking for an internship this summer. While COVID-19 has definitely had a major impact on the way we all work, companies still have to plan for the future, and you still need to get your foot in the door. So while there may not be as many internship positions available, the networking will definitely pay off in the long run. Also, there are plenty of companies that are having virtual internships where you'll be able to learn the ins-and-outs of the industry.

Long story short -- It is absolutely worth your time to put forth the effort and continue building your professional network. Good luck!
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Shruti’s Answer

I can understand that it might be difficult to get an internship as the number of openings may have reduced. But definitely keep looking.
Do you think no one is going to get internships this summer? Obviously No, right?
Again I can understand the pressure, but just keep going, be positive and be confident! You got this!
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Caroline’s Answer

Hello Erick,
We are uncertain at this time how long Covid-19 will last. My suggestion is to look for internships that can be run virtually. We might be surprised by how many employers that will switch their internship opportunities to online options.
Thank you comment icon Hi Erick, I agree with Caroline's answer. There are several virtual/remote opportunities that I would expect to be opening up. Use your network, LinkedIn and other social media and ask around. Good luck. Erica Favela-Johnson
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Lauren’s Answer

Hi Erick!

Thanks for asking this question. I think many students are wondering the same thing right now. A couple thoughts:

a) Nobody knows how the coronavirus will progress over the next few weeks and months so it's hard to predict whether or not internships will even happen.
b) Regardless of whether or not companies decide to do internships this summer, now is the time to expand your network. You may already be behind in applying for public accounting internships. But, there may be opportunities to work with smaller companies that don't recruit earlier in the year.
c) I've seen many companies becoming significantly more agile in terms of virtual offerings. They may be able to hire you on virtually if you can find the right opportunity.

All that to say, you definitely won't get an internship if you don't try. It's worth getting your resume out there and meeting with people virtually so that if internships are offered, you'll be front of mind. Good luck!
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Ashley’s Answer

Hi Erick, during these unprecedented times, it may seem like an impossible mission to find an internship, but I encourage you to keep on looking and trying. Yes, COVID-19 has impacted many companies and the hiring may have slowed down or stopped, but there are a lot of companies out there that are still actively hiring. Always take the time and energy to expand your own knowledge base, that's something no one can ever take away from you, your experiences. I'd also advise you to look into industries that have not been impacted as much during these times such as, medical device companies, tech companies, only to name a few. If you are able to land an internship for the summer, what an exciting time to understand where the industry is headed after such an impactful few months that have shifted the mindset of so many other companies moving forward.

Best of luck!
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Melanie’s Answer

Absolutely! Your ability to adapt during these circumstances will prove to be a very valuable skill set going forward. While we are all impacted by these unprecedented times, I think that it speaks volumes when you are still eager to develop and grow rather than be complacent. Think about how much more someone who is just beginning their career has to learn and adapt as compared to someone who has already been working for years. Having a positive attitude and willingness to learn despite the obstacles will not go unnoticed. This is definitely something that you can leverage and learn from as you continue your journey beyond your internship. Not many people can say that they successfully completed a virtual internship. That's huge! If I were you, I would definitely take advantage of this unique opportunity to set yourself apart from your peers.
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James’s Answer

Internships can be very competitive but it's important to put yourself out there and apply for any positions that you may be interested in. Even if you do not land the internship that you were hoping for or the company you were interested in is not hiring for the summer, continue to network and see what opportunities are available. Any experience that you gain in the field this summer will help give you an edge over candidates for future internships or full time positions. There will be plenty of accounting roles out there so continue to do your research and apply - don't get discouraged if your top choices don't work out.
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Gianna’s Answer

Hi there! I'm sure there are plenty of students out there with a similar question, you are not alone. I would encourage you to continue your search for an internship for the 2020 summer. Many companies already have the tools in place to work remotely or have adapted to enable their employees to work remotely. Even if you cannot find an internship that will work for you this summer, it is important that you got your name and your resume out there! And who knows, maybe you even got to do a few practice interviews- ALL of which are important to your career development.

Good luck!
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Courtney’s Answer

While this is a crazy and unsure time in the world, we will get back to some semblance of normalcy. The valuable thing about accounting is that everyone needs accountants. As firms may be scaling back on certain areas because of this pandemic, they still need an intern and starting class every year for continuance of growth. If firms did not continue to hire for these positions, years down the road there will not be enough seniors and managers for the amount of work. You may find that smaller or regional firms have fewer positions available, but large firms need people like you to apply and learn, not just for your future but for the future of accounting.
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Vivian’s Answer

Hi Erick! Great question! As others have said, people will always need accountants. Many firms may be on hiring freezes right now, but eventually, they will be searching for interns/incoming associates. My suggestion is to continue to check the career websites for accounting firms. Another good resource right now during this uncertain time is this listing over here, which has updates on hiring status of different firms:
https://candor.co/hiring-freezes/
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Sara’s Answer

It may be better to find something and then cancel last minute if needed vs. everything go back to normal early and you have nothing.
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Sandra’s Answer

Hi Erick,

I will echo the other answers here, do not give up! None of us can know how long we will be impacted by COVID-19 but we do know it will not be forever. My advise is to continue to look for internship opportunities for the summer. Virtual opportunities might also present themselves as well. You can find many ways to stay connected on line as well possibly even as a virtual volunteer. Check in with your school counselor, I am sure they have a list of opportunities and resources they can provide.

Good Luck!
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Priscilla’s Answer

Hi Erick,

I would say it is definitely worth pursuing an internship this summer. If you never try, you'll never know - and, there could very well be opportunity out there to intern. From a personal perspective, our team has had no issues working remotely, and if we were to add an intern to our team this summer, I think it would be rewarding for them and beneficial for us. Go for it!

Best of luck!
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Cody’s Answer

There is no reason not to apply for as many interships as you possibly can. You won't know you can't/won't be able to get internship unless you apply. Various firms are holding virtual internships this year during this summer which could provide you different opportunities.
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Krishna’s Answer

Hi Erick,

I know it is a tough time, especially for those looking for internships and jobs. Despite the current situation, I think it is 100% worth trying to get an internship. I know many companies are transitioning to virtual internships for the summer which is beneficial for cost-cutting purposes for you. You do not need to relocate or struggle to find and pay for housing. Instead, you can work from the comfort of your own home. Worst comes to worst, you don't find an internship, which is completely understandable given the current situation. However, it is better to try than not try at all.

I wish you the best of luck.
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Luke’s Answer

Hi Erick,

Given the uncertain times, summer 2020 will have plenty of complications but it is more critical than ever that you refine your resume, cover letters, and seek out companies that might have hiring needs this summer. Given the alternative to seeking out employment is to not work, it certainly makes sense to put forth all your effort to strategizing and coming up with a gameplan to achieve what you seek. Conversely, if you were to instead venture off and seek further independent education (i.e. learning python, other coding languages, start a small business with low capital requirements, etc.) this would certainly offer other benefits that may end up opening up more doors for you in the future.

In short, internally think about what you want to accomplish in several years and depending on the end result you seek, put forth all necessary effort as soon as possible to set yourself on the correct path. Best of luck.
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Nicholas’s Answer

Hi Erick,

Although it may be tough to see the full picture with all that is going on currently and what is being projected in the next few weeks and months, it is important to remain focused. By reaching out to various firms you can build a relationship with their talent acquisition staff. Even if this does not lead to an internship this summer, if you make a good impression you will be on their mind when they look to hire. It is my feeling that at some point the firms are going to need to hire to fill positions caused by people leaving or being promoted. Many of the larger firms have high amounts of regular turnover and thus need to continue hiring to run smoothly in the future. I am not sure where you are in your educational journey or what your goals are in terms of where you want to work, but being at the front of a recruiters mind can be very beneficial both now and in the future. I would reach out to any firms that you have interest in and see how you can apply for any programs they offer. I hope this helps and wish you the best of luck in your search.
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Dana’s Answer

You miss 100% of the shots you dont take. Also everyone is in the same boat - no need to take yourself out of the running if you can help it!
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Olivia’s Answer

Hi Erick,

Thank you for asking this, I think a lot of students have the same question this year. I know it is so easy to get down during these uncertain times, but I think it is really important to not give up. I would encourage you to continue putting your name and resume out there to companies. A lot of companies are able to offer some sort of virtual experience whether its a full internship or a different type of developmental experience. Having the opportunity to interview with companies will give you great experience whether you get a position or not. I also think it can be helpful to have your name out there with companies, so even if an opportunity is not available this summer, they might be in the fall or next summer.

Along with the advice from others in this thread, if you are not able to get an internship, I think it is good opportunity to spend time learning online. There are a lot of resources out there that can help you learn new skills that are applicable in the business world. For example, digital upskilling can go a long way. Companies look for these types of skills in potential candidates so it can't hurt to work on improving your skills during some extra downtime this summer.

Good luck and I wish you the best!
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Ro’s Answer

COVID19 may have definitely altered the plan of many students searching for internships- but when something affects your path, shift and keep moving forward! As a Career Specialist, I've been placing students in VIRTUAL - online internships. Almost all major companies are offering virtual internships to adjust to COVID19 (Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG just to name a few accounting firms). Yes, these internships are competitive (they were before the pandemic), so you have to apply and earn it, but there are opportunities.
Start researching companies for internships, consider virtual internships, and don't be afraid to take a non-traditional internship if it's related to accounting (for ex: doing accounting internship at a tech company). COVID19 has become an obstacle, but don't let it become your excuse not to follow your path. Good luck!
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Shareen’s Answer

absolutely - if nothing else you will gain some new contacts and learnt more about roles that are available.
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Genesis’s Answer

Hi Erick,

First of all, great question! I am sure you're not the only one with this concern. To be quite honest I don't blame you for thinking this way, but in actuality I do think it is best to continue your search. I know times are very difficult right and you may think companies are not concerned, but they are. I work at PwC and I know it is still very important to us to serve and deliver to our clients in the best way possible, especially during these difficult times. Just the other day we had a Webcast where we talked about what COVID-19 meant for the interns we have right now and what it means for the interns starting in the summer. It was clear that we still need them now more than ever. Yes, everyone is working virtual, but does not mean the need isn't there. If I were you I would take this time to continue applying and being optimistic! You'll have a great chance of landing an internship with a positive attitude and continuing your search.

Good luck!

Genesis
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Henry’s Answer

Hello Erick,

Accounting internships have definitely changed after Covid in terms of where and how they take place, but I firmly believe the value behind doing an internship in the summer is still there and the insight you'd get from learning how the workplace functions is extremely valuable. As someone currently at PwC, I feel there is a strong push for many companies to go virtual or reimagine the way internships can work in a virtual environment.

You never know where your next opportunity will take you and it never hurts to try!

Henry
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Jake’s Answer

Absolutely! Obtaining an internship is the best way to see if the accounting industry is a good fit for you. While COVID-19 may impact the traditional internship experience, you will still be able to learn about the various lines of service the firms offer. An internship will help guide you to make a decision that is best for your future.
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Sanghee’s Answer

Erick,

I understand where you are coming from given the current situation.
As many of the others already mentioned before me, it is certainly still good to apply for an internship this summer too.

For our Firm, generally I believe the summer interns go through application well before the summer.
This summer our Firm is adopting to this global pandemic and our interns' experience will be different as they will have their internship virtually.

If you start looking now which firms you want to have internships, you might have a higher chance to land on an internship coming year.
Also, another bonus of having an internship during this summer even if it's not in the direct field you plan to have your career is that it will provide a wonderful validation of your character of resilience during the challenging time and will become one of the great story you can share during up-coming interviews you may have.

Best of luck!
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David’s Answer

It is absolutely worth getting an internship despite the pandemic. I have completed a virtual internship this summer and it was a very rewarding experience.
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Shiraz’s Answer

I would say yes. there are many companies that are taking up interns working remotely. It is just that its more challenging you collaborate remotely but still better than not interning at all. especially big companies in silicon valley are mostly all business as usual in terms of internships.
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Pamela’s Answer

Hello !!
I understand that these times are hard but we need to think in a positive way and know that this situation will eventually change.
I encourage you to continue searching and applying to an internship since it is very beneficial for your career.
Internships can be an open door to a permanent job.
It will help you earn practical skills and to be involved directly in the daily work.
Plus you can benefit from the experience and the knowledge of the employees you will be working with.
Internships are very beneficial to get you started in the professional world and it can help you get a job offer.
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Vic’s Answer

Hi! I would say yes it is rougher out there to get an internship but regardless trying doesn't hurt. Many companies are offering virtual options and if the world continues to operate in this virtual environment having experience in it will help.
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John’s Answer

Of course! As long as your heart is in it, Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to the community. With COVID, virtual volunteering is the safe bet and there are hundreds of options out there.
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Diksha’s Answer

Hi Erick!

I would say yes because you get to make connections with professionals which can help you in the future. You also get to enhance your interview skills. Lastly, you never know what opportunities you will come across so I say give it a try!

Hope this helps!
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Luis’s Answer

Hi Eric!

Of course it is! A lot of companies are still doing internships! Overall experience may different, but still valuable experience and knowledge to learn!
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Michael’s Answer

Hi Erick!

I absolutely recommend and internship even amongst the pandemic in these uncertain times. As the professional business environment has shifted to a remote world, a remote internship will display to recruiters that you can still excel while in a virtual setting. Remote working has provided companies and employees alike the ability to have increased flexibility in day to day tasks.

Going forward, it is extremely likely that traditional solely in office companies will offer flexible work from home options. Being able to effectively utilize applications such as Google hangouts, Microsoft Teams, and WebEx will be crucial once you receive a full-time job offer. Your internship will help you develops skills in these virtual collaboration tools.

Good luck!
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Helen’s Answer

Hi Erick,

Yes it is. Try reaching Tech companies such as HP or Dell.
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Alan’s Answer

Hi Erick,

I definitely encourage you to keep pursuing internships and don't give up despite these strange times. A couple reasons from my experience:

1. One of the biggest value add from an internship is the network that you build, which is extremely important in the field of accounting and the Big 4. Just by reaching out, professionals will know you better and be able to provide feedback come time for hiring for new grad positions.

2. It is an opportunity to further demonstrate your initiative and resiliency to still be motivated to pursue an internship during these difficult times. Key characteristic for success in the industry from experience.

Good luck! Hope this helps!
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Chelsea’s Answer

Hi Erick,

In short, I would say yes, it would be valuable to look for internships even in these uncertain times.

Going through the recruiting process more times will only help you be more prepared for the future through gaining more insight into how firms/companies structure the process. In addition you will be provided with insight into the firms/companies you may speak with the get a better sense of how good of a fit you and them may be in the future through networking.

While some internships have been cut short and do not provide as many opportunities to gain some hands-on experience as internships pre-COVID, the chance to obtain some insight from professionals as they continue to undergo the struggles of the pandemic can be valuable in gaining perspective.

Ultimately, the choice is up to you and what you want to prioritize your time on whether that be looking for internships or seeking out alternative options including supplemental learning in your studies. I wish you the best of luck with your future endeavors, whatever you may choose!
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Christina’s Answer

Hi Erick- It would not hurt to apply for a summer internship. Some firms are going ahead and offering virtual internships in order to give individuals a glimpse into their companies. However, do not be discouraged if you do not receive an internship offer for this summer, as there are limited opportunities due to the current state. I encourage you to reach out to professionals and see if you could set up a phone call with them to discuss their current careers/ work experience. This is another way for you to grow your network and learn about different firms/ career paths.
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Ricardo’s Answer

Hi Erick,

I think looking for internship, even with covid is absolutely worth it. The process of looking up internships and going through the process is very eye opening into what you want in a career, what are your personal strengths, and how do you convey yourself in a professional setting. This pandemic will end, and the experience gained from even just searching for internship will help long into your professional career.

Companies are still looking for roles (interns work virtually from home) and many are offering virtual externship. While this may not translate to 1-1 office experience it has it own unique benefit of learning how to use technology and how to communicate efficiently in a digital landscape. Not to mention you will still get actual work experience and start to network directly in a professional environment. I started my internship during Covid, and I find the experience extremely rewarding.

I hope this helps!

Ricardo
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Agnieszka’s Answer

Sure it is!
There will be both remote and F2F internships for sure. The main thing is to be open to adjust to change, especially we cannot influence the current pandemic situation, so we can only try to find our way through this!
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