19 answers
Cindel
Student
Pasco, Washington
1
Question
Asked
1277 views
Scholarship and Internship Opportunities pre-studies?
My goal is to get connections in the Accounting industry and gain experience and practical skills. Is there a place to connect with internships to learn workplace skills or scholarships specific to Accounting or Finance emphasized studies?
19 answers
Audrey Luu
Technology Consultant
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Audrey’s Answer
Hi Cindel,
Here are some resources and platforms to find accounting/finance related scholarships and internships:
1) Career centers: Most schools have a career services center that can help you with find scholarships and internships
2) Professional organizations: Check out the AICPA and CFA institute websites for resources relevant to accounting/finance
3) Scholarship websites: Fastweb and Scholarships.com provides a vast repository of scholarships that you can filter on based on your area of study
4) Job websites: LinkedIn and Indeed are great job posting websites/social network websites to search for internship opportunities
Here are some resources and platforms to find accounting/finance related scholarships and internships:
1) Career centers: Most schools have a career services center that can help you with find scholarships and internships
2) Professional organizations: Check out the AICPA and CFA institute websites for resources relevant to accounting/finance
3) Scholarship websites: Fastweb and Scholarships.com provides a vast repository of scholarships that you can filter on based on your area of study
4) Job websites: LinkedIn and Indeed are great job posting websites/social network websites to search for internship opportunities
Damion Freeman
Tax Accountant
27
Answers
North Port, Florida
Updated
Damion’s Answer
Hello,
There are plenty plenty of options to check out through your school for internships and/or scholarships. The best bet is to try and go to the various career fairs that your school or other local schools will offer. Also, if there are any particular Accounting firms that you are interested in, go ahead and check out their websites for contact information with the human resource departments who can further assist you.
For practical skills, there are tons of YouTube videos as well as pages dedicated to accountants. The sky is the limit dependant upon what type of accountant you wish to become. That is the real catch there, I would check out the different kinds of accountants and roles we fill and do a deeper dive into what hard and soft skills are needed to get to that point.
I wish the best in your journey and best of luck!
There are plenty plenty of options to check out through your school for internships and/or scholarships. The best bet is to try and go to the various career fairs that your school or other local schools will offer. Also, if there are any particular Accounting firms that you are interested in, go ahead and check out their websites for contact information with the human resource departments who can further assist you.
For practical skills, there are tons of YouTube videos as well as pages dedicated to accountants. The sky is the limit dependant upon what type of accountant you wish to become. That is the real catch there, I would check out the different kinds of accountants and roles we fill and do a deeper dive into what hard and soft skills are needed to get to that point.
I wish the best in your journey and best of luck!
David Waite
Tax Accountant Intern
5
Answers
Salt Lake City, Utah
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Cindel,
The key for me during my time at university was to leave no stone unturned.
Career fairs – I attended them all and spoke to every booth, even if I wasn’t interested in them at first. It gives you practice, gets your name out there, and you can even find yourself drawn to a company you wouldn’t have considered otherwise.
Career Office – I utilized the office so much that the advisor for the business school would say hi to me in crowded corridors!
Clubs – Companies came and told us about internship opportunities at the BAP (Beta-Alpha-Psi) meetings. This ended up being the most impactful as both the internships I accepted were at companies who presented here.
Alumni – Your university or college will have an alumni network and most people are willing to give some quick advice. There is the chance you can make a real connection with someone who can recommend you for opportunities as well.
LinkedIn – A key site to learn how to use. You can reach out to alumni, employees at companies you care about, and browse internship listings and apply for them.
Stay driven and consistent, passion shines brightly to people hiring for internships.
Good Luck!
The key for me during my time at university was to leave no stone unturned.
Career fairs – I attended them all and spoke to every booth, even if I wasn’t interested in them at first. It gives you practice, gets your name out there, and you can even find yourself drawn to a company you wouldn’t have considered otherwise.
Career Office – I utilized the office so much that the advisor for the business school would say hi to me in crowded corridors!
Clubs – Companies came and told us about internship opportunities at the BAP (Beta-Alpha-Psi) meetings. This ended up being the most impactful as both the internships I accepted were at companies who presented here.
Alumni – Your university or college will have an alumni network and most people are willing to give some quick advice. There is the chance you can make a real connection with someone who can recommend you for opportunities as well.
LinkedIn – A key site to learn how to use. You can reach out to alumni, employees at companies you care about, and browse internship listings and apply for them.
Stay driven and consistent, passion shines brightly to people hiring for internships.
Good Luck!
Paula H. Dionisio
Auditor
2
Answers
San Carlos, California
Updated
Paula H.’s Answer
Starting your journey at your school's career center is a brilliant first step. They are there to link you with local opportunities and businesses, paving the way for your future. These centers often arrange career fairs, which are fantastic platforms for you to interact with a variety of companies and individuals in your field of interest. They'll keep you informed about upcoming dates and essential details. Career fairs can be a stepping stone to the career path you're eager to follow. Don't forget, your accounting professor is also a valuable resource who can guide you in discovering internships and scholarships. They are there to help you succeed. So, take that first step, and let the journey to your dream career begin!
Anthony Waelter
Management Consultant
1
Answer
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
Absolutely consider connecting with accounting firms at career fairs and various university activities. Your career center is an excellent resource to keep you informed about the schedules of these firm visits. They will also ensure you're aware of when internship interviews are taking place. This could be an incredible launchpad for your future, so seize every opportunity!
Maria Olivera PMP®,CSM®
IT
7
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Maria’s Answer
Also, make sure to collaborate with your school's guidance and alumni network. But remember, the most crucial part is to find a mentor who can help shape your journey in the field. Wishing you all the success in the world!
Schedule a appointment with the School Guidance Counselor
Meet with one of the almuni
Obtain a mentor
Maria recommends the following next steps:
Whitney Rubega
Senior Associate
28
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Whitney’s Answer
Hi Cindel,
While scholarship and internships can be found by searching the web, I would also recommend you reach out to local companies to learn what programs they have to offer and network with individuals in the field. That way, they can help you understand what opportunities are available and any potential requirements. Remember that each experience will build your resume and knowledge of the field, so don't be shy to try different things even if it's not exactly what you had in mind!
While scholarship and internships can be found by searching the web, I would also recommend you reach out to local companies to learn what programs they have to offer and network with individuals in the field. That way, they can help you understand what opportunities are available and any potential requirements. Remember that each experience will build your resume and knowledge of the field, so don't be shy to try different things even if it's not exactly what you had in mind!
Morise Adio-Moses
External Auditor
1
Answer
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Morise’s Answer
Hello Cindel! I've got some exciting opportunities for you to explore. You might have seen some of them in the fantastic suggestions already given.
1) Check out Career Fairs - they're a goldmine of opportunities.
2) Apply for Scholarships in the College of Business - it's a great way to support your studies.
3) Become a part of Accounting/Finance student organizations - they're a fun and educational way to connect with peers.
4) Start Networking on LinkedIn - it's a professional platform that can open many doors.
5) Have a chat with a counsellor or career coach - they can provide valuable guidance.
Remember, success is waiting for you. Best of luck with your studies!
1) Check out Career Fairs - they're a goldmine of opportunities.
2) Apply for Scholarships in the College of Business - it's a great way to support your studies.
3) Become a part of Accounting/Finance student organizations - they're a fun and educational way to connect with peers.
4) Start Networking on LinkedIn - it's a professional platform that can open many doors.
5) Have a chat with a counsellor or career coach - they can provide valuable guidance.
Remember, success is waiting for you. Best of luck with your studies!
Meredith Sykes
1
Answer
Memphis, Tennessee
Updated
Meredith’s Answer
Here are a few ideas for you to consider:
1) Work with your school’s academic or career counselor
2) Participate in career fairs, often there are ones specific to accounting, where you can ask practical questions as well as learn about internship opportunities
3) Research scholarships to apply for on Business school websites
4) Reach out to local companies with interest
5) Make connections and reach out on Linkedin
6) Search for workshops sponsored by your state’s board of accountancy or the AICPA
1) Work with your school’s academic or career counselor
2) Participate in career fairs, often there are ones specific to accounting, where you can ask practical questions as well as learn about internship opportunities
3) Research scholarships to apply for on Business school websites
4) Reach out to local companies with interest
5) Make connections and reach out on Linkedin
6) Search for workshops sponsored by your state’s board of accountancy or the AICPA
Ayo J
Cybersecurity Engineer
2
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Ayo’s Answer
Hello Cindel,
That's an excellent question! One platform that's frequently underestimated is LinkedIn. This platform provides an avenue to establish direct connections with professionals, explore potential opportunities, and gain a deeper understanding of the company and the job role. What I personally found effective was initiating contact with professionals from the company I was interested in. I asked for a brief introductory meeting to connect and inquire about the job, the work atmosphere, and so forth. If you haven't done so already, I highly recommend creating a LinkedIn profile and beginning to expand your network. It's a great step towards your career goals! 😊
That's an excellent question! One platform that's frequently underestimated is LinkedIn. This platform provides an avenue to establish direct connections with professionals, explore potential opportunities, and gain a deeper understanding of the company and the job role. What I personally found effective was initiating contact with professionals from the company I was interested in. I asked for a brief introductory meeting to connect and inquire about the job, the work atmosphere, and so forth. If you haven't done so already, I highly recommend creating a LinkedIn profile and beginning to expand your network. It's a great step towards your career goals! 😊
Madison Mzyk
2
Answers
Updated
Madison’s Answer
This is awesome you are already thinking about how to launch into your career! I would start attending the career fairs as well as just networking on Linked In and with your other fellow students, even those a year above you to see how to get involved and apply for internships in accounting. You can do an internship as early as sophomore year with firms! If public accounting is an interest, then definitely check out their websites and consider joining your accounting club on campus as they bring in firms that would be awesome experience to intern at.
Good luck!
Good luck!
Taro Yanagisawa
Tax Accountant
6
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Taro’s Answer
Hi Cindel, I would talk to your school's academic advisor or career counselor for the advice as they would have the network around your area. Also, you can search for any workshop sponsored by AICPA or your state's board of accountancy, and build your network there as well. Finally, give a shot at connecting through linkedin.
Rachel Hong
Tax Consultant
5
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Hi Cindel!
Those are great questions. I can answer separately for scholarships and internship.
Scholarships:
- State board of accountancy: Most of these organizations offer students an opportunity to sign up for financial aid such as CPA exam fees and tuition fees, etc.
- School Scholarship: The range of financial support from school differs depending on schools but I believe there are chances to apply for scholarships in either your business department or school's financial department in general.
- Non-Profit Organization: There are myriads of financial aids you can also check out online. I recommend looking into non-profit organizations first.
Internship:
- Career Fair: some colleges are big4's target schools so not only big4s but also other accounting firms visit each school's career fair once/twice a year and make connections with the prospective candidates. This is the easiest way to get to know the types of the firms and learn their cultures but if your school is not a target school, don't worry. There are multiple ways to broaden your connections.
- LinkedIn: connect with the professionals who work at the accounting firms you are interested in and send them a personal message showing your interest towards the company, specifically which services line you are interested in such as tax, audit, and advisory etc.
- Career Center: every college has a department where they revise students' resumes and teach them interview skills. I highly recommend you utilize as many resources as you can at school.
- Business Social Clubs: those professional business social clubs have built strong relationship with big4s so I recommend getting connected through these organizations first.
Hope this helps!
Those are great questions. I can answer separately for scholarships and internship.
Scholarships:
- State board of accountancy: Most of these organizations offer students an opportunity to sign up for financial aid such as CPA exam fees and tuition fees, etc.
- School Scholarship: The range of financial support from school differs depending on schools but I believe there are chances to apply for scholarships in either your business department or school's financial department in general.
- Non-Profit Organization: There are myriads of financial aids you can also check out online. I recommend looking into non-profit organizations first.
Internship:
- Career Fair: some colleges are big4's target schools so not only big4s but also other accounting firms visit each school's career fair once/twice a year and make connections with the prospective candidates. This is the easiest way to get to know the types of the firms and learn their cultures but if your school is not a target school, don't worry. There are multiple ways to broaden your connections.
- LinkedIn: connect with the professionals who work at the accounting firms you are interested in and send them a personal message showing your interest towards the company, specifically which services line you are interested in such as tax, audit, and advisory etc.
- Career Center: every college has a department where they revise students' resumes and teach them interview skills. I highly recommend you utilize as many resources as you can at school.
- Business Social Clubs: those professional business social clubs have built strong relationship with big4s so I recommend getting connected through these organizations first.
Hope this helps!
Brian Kess
Cybersecurity Consultant | Sec+
1
Answer
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Hey there, Cindel! I'd love to suggest that you consider attending career fairs. They're fantastic places to meet companies and find out if their vibe matches your passions. Plus, connecting with a career counselor or coach can be super beneficial! Also, why not join some accounting or finance clubs? It's a fun way to mingle with folks who share your interests and it could help you grow your network!
Hector Mellado
International Tax consultant
3
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Hector’s Answer
A good way to find internships, expand your network, make new connections, and find scholarships is by joining professional organizations. There are couple that come to my mind such as ALPFA (Association of Latino Professionals For America), NABA (National Association of Black Accountants), NAAP (National Association of Asian American Professionals). Even though their members are mainly latino/black/asians, these organizations are open to everyone. I know that some colleges/universities have student chapters for these organizations. They normally have professional chapters in certain cities where they organize events that benefit the community and students from the area. The national chapter usually has memberships for both students AND professionals which would allow you make new connections and expand your network. Finally, the national chapters usually host national conventions and regional symposiums where professionals/students can attend workshops to improve their skills, as well as attending career fair with many employers who are looking for interns/new hires. These career fairs are the perfect way to get your feet into these organizations and hopefully land an internship. These are the only 3 organizations that come to mind, but I'm sure there are many more organizations that have similar purpose. The key is to stay consistent until you get what you want!
Thomson Mallayil
1
Answer
Updated
Thomson’s Answer
If you are a high school student, the best is to reach out to your school counselor who may be able to help you with local internship opportunities.
If you are a college student, most schools have a career website and career counselors who may also help with reviewing your resume, and provide info on campus recruiting events. There are also career events/fairs in many cities / local universities. You can also search for opportunities in career websites like jobvite, linkedin, glassdoor, indeed, etc. You may also find local companies in your area and look for their career/opportunities in the website of that company. The key is to apply, and keep applying until you find the right opportunity.
If you are a college student, most schools have a career website and career counselors who may also help with reviewing your resume, and provide info on campus recruiting events. There are also career events/fairs in many cities / local universities. You can also search for opportunities in career websites like jobvite, linkedin, glassdoor, indeed, etc. You may also find local companies in your area and look for their career/opportunities in the website of that company. The key is to apply, and keep applying until you find the right opportunity.
Jennifer Yu
Auditor
2
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Cindel,
There are definitely some ways to build up your portfolio and career path in accounting.
Here are some of my suggestions:
1) Connect with people in the same career. (LinkedIn, professor.. etc)
2) Check our career fairs opportunity
3) Utilize some company's website to check our any internship programs
Wish you best luck in the future!
There are definitely some ways to build up your portfolio and career path in accounting.
Here are some of my suggestions:
1) Connect with people in the same career. (LinkedIn, professor.. etc)
2) Check our career fairs opportunity
3) Utilize some company's website to check our any internship programs
Wish you best luck in the future!
kavipprabha Vivek
Team Lead
1
Answer
Lake Mary, Florida
Updated
kavipprabha’s Answer
Hi Cindel,
-->Step up your Skills and build your profile
The Below skills are relevant for accounting interns
1)Understanding of Microsoft Office and other applicable programs
2)High attention to detail
3)Ability to collaborate in a team environment
4)Background in mathematics
-->Filter the list of companies that you want to be in and search for internships in their job websites.
--> Learn best practices for interviewing and following up.
-->Attend internship fairs at your school / Take advantage of campus resources
-->Step up your Skills and build your profile
The Below skills are relevant for accounting interns
1)Understanding of Microsoft Office and other applicable programs
2)High attention to detail
3)Ability to collaborate in a team environment
4)Background in mathematics
-->Filter the list of companies that you want to be in and search for internships in their job websites.
--> Learn best practices for interviewing and following up.
-->Attend internship fairs at your school / Take advantage of campus resources
Kara DelaRosa
State Tax
3
Answers
Costa Mesa, California
Updated
Kara’s Answer
Fantastic query! The realm of Accounting and Finance can be incredibly specialized. Therefore, I'd suggest you delve into the world of small to medium-sized companies for potential internship openings. Make sure to liaise with your school's career center and perhaps even your Accounting/Finance instructors to get a head start. Then, aim for businesses and/or industries that pique your interest. Remember, networking plays a crucial role in this journey. You might have a friend or a family member employed at a company who could introduce you to their in-house Accounting or Finance team to explore internship opportunities. If public accounting sparks your interest, check out if your school hosts an accounting club or Beta Alpha Sci. Wishing you the best of luck!
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