I had only taken an introductory accounting course when I applied for my first internship at Schneider Downs.
This intimidated me as I entered the internship; however, knowing that Schneider Downs still offered me the position instilled confidence in me.
I began my experience with Schneider Downs as an audit intern in the summer of 2023. My audit internship opened my eyes to the world of public accounting and was nothing short of an amazing first internship.
I gained experience in ERISAs, financial statement audits, preparing memos, and meeting with clients. Every engagement team I was on throughout the summer gave me the opportunity to learn things independently, while still allowing me to ask plenty of questions when I was unsure or needed help.
Any uncertainty I had prior to the internship went away with each engagement and employee I encountered.
While I loved audit work, I wanted exposure to the tax industry. Schneider Downs allowed me to do this, as I returned in May 2024 for a tax internship. So far, it has been an amazing experience. I’ve prepared S Corporation, partnership and individual income tax returns, as well as one amended return. Beyond returns, I’ve worked on various tasks dealing with Schedule K1s, fixed assets, qualified business income reporting, and more.
There are so many opportunities to get hands-on experiences at Schneider Downs, but they also make sure to incorporate fun events too. During my audit internship, we went to Five Iron, a Pirates game and volunteered at the Pittsburgh Food Bank. This summer, we volunteered at Humane Animal Rescue and will be having a cookout at Highland Park. Both internships had a Lunch with Leaders series, as well as different workshops on personal finance and career development.
I’m so grateful that Schneider Downs gave me two opportunities to see different sides of the public accounting industry. Every project I have worked on enhanced my knowledge considerably. On top of that, every person and team I have worked with has been a crucial part of my learning and enhanced my overall experience. I could not ask for a better introduction to the public accounting industry!
Start Your Career with Schneider Downs
As a trusted advisor in the professional services industry, you know what matters most to clients: Big Thinking with a Personal Focus. You also know what matters most to your success, including: career growth, work-life flexibility, leadership that cares about your ability to succeed, the opportunity to give and receive one-on-one coaching and mentoring, as well as learning opportunities that inspire professional development.
Build an exceptional career with diverse, talented people who are among the most respected in their fields. Join our team at Schneider Downs where flexibility, growth, impactful work and a collaborative mindset await you.
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