InternshipRatings.com

By Robert Woodard
Assurance and Advisory Business Services
Ernst and Young, LLP

Internships offer college students the best way to break into large companies during their college years. Companies take this opportunity to gauge the ability of potential candidates to become successful members of their organization. In my experience in four years in the Accounting Industry (three years at mid-size firm, and currently at Ernst & Young) I have seen the positive effect that an internship can have on an individual’s career and development. This article will focus on the experience you can gain through an internship, what accounting firms look or in an intern, and how you can get the most out of your internship.

A candidate can gain valuable experience in the Accounting Industry by becoming involved in an internship while they are attending school. I remember discussing with classmates how apparent it was during senior year who had interned at different firms during the previous summer based on their performance and contribution during class. Students who had participated in internships understood the real life applications of the work that the class was performing. An internship will also give you the opportunity for your first exposure to a corporate work office and corporate culture.

Accounting firms focus on students with strong academic performance and involvement in their schools accounting program. Once a student begins an internship a firm will began to look for success factors in candidates. They will want to see how you respond to challenges, deal with superiors and your work ethic. Interns who display a positive attitude and a willingness to be a team player will distinguish themselves from their peers and establish themselves as candidates for full-time offers.

To get the most out of your internship opportunity, approach the internship with a positive attitude and soak in as much as possible each day. Get to know the other interns and talk with them about their experiences. When you are given tasks make sure that you understand what is expected and the time frame to complete the task. Make sure to ask any questions as there are no dumb questions this early in your career. Do not forget that an internship is an “extended interview” with the firm. Get to know the firm’s values, strengths and focuses during your time there and evaluate how they match your own.

Ernst & Young provides specific events for their interns to allow them the best opportunity to succeed. First there is a local introduction event where interns are introduced to the program, the firm and each other. This event is also where interns meet their peer mentor (generally an employee with 1-2 years experience) as well as their counselor (generally an employee with 5+ years of experience). During the internship, Ernst & Young will provide group work for the interns such as researching tax issues in groups to develop team work. Finally, Ernst & Young takes their interns to Disney World at the conclusion of the program. During the trip the interns spend a day meeting other interns from offices across the country through ice breakers and group projects. The second day is devoted to learning more about firm practices and policies and then a night at the theme park.

An internship opportunity at an accounting firm can jump start your career. You will gain real world experience while increasing your chances of being hired by the firm of your choice. If you approach each day of your internship with a positive attitude and focus on working hard and becoming involved in the firm you are bound to have a successful internship and gain experience that you will use for the rest of your life.