When I was an accounting major exploring internship opportunities my sophomore year, I knew I wanted more than just a resume builder. I wanted an experience that would challenge me and help decide what career path was truly the right fit. Public accounting wasn’t entirely on my radar yet, but a chance meeting at a campus event with the recruiting team at Maillie helped shape the trajectory of my career.
Looking back, I can share that choosing the right internship is all about the experience, relationships, and opportunity. Here’s how I found mine and what I’d tell any student preparing to do the same.
Learn by Doing (and Asking)
When I first began looking into internships, I thought a lot about where I’d feel most supported. I wanted to join a firm that would invest in my learning and allow me to be more than just “the intern.” Early on, one of the most surprising parts of my internship was how quickly I was trusted with meaningful tasks. From day one at Maillie, I felt like part of the team. I was sitting in on client calls and working on real projects.
I wasn’t just shadowing. I was contributing. The insight into what a full-time role in accounting would really look like, everything from tax prep to client communication and team collaboration, was incredible. At first, it was a little intimidating too.
I asked a ton of questions and was encouraged to do so. People at all levels took the time to pause and provide answers. It was clear that helping interns learn was something the whole team took seriously. That openness and accessibility and willingness to teach stood out and as a result, my confidence grew.
My takeaway: The best internships don’t just give you busy work. They give you a foundation to believe in your own ability.
Find Your People
Something special about Maillie is the emphasis on building real relationships. During my internship, I got to know people at every level, from fellow interns to partners and clients. Those relationships didn’t end when the internship was over. They helped me stay connected, continue learning, and ultimately transition into a full-time role here after graduation.
My takeaway: An internship can help you grow professionally, but it can also connect you with people who are genuinely invested in your success for the short and long term.
Explore the Path Forward
What truly set my internship apart was how intentional Maillie was about setting me up for success during the program and after. From check-ins with mentors to feedback on my work, I always knew where I stood and how I could improve. When I received a full-time offer, it didn’t feel like an ending. It felt like a natural next step.
My takeaway: If you’re evaluating internship opportunities, look for one that not only teaches you the basics, but helps you picture what your future could look like.
Why Maillie Was the Right Full Time Fit for Me
It wasn’t just one thing that convinced me to accept a full-time offer at Maille. It was the combination of culture, challenge, and support. I was trusted to do meaningful work. I had mentors who cared. And I could see a clear path for growth. I wasn’t seen as just an intern when I started here. This team saw me as a future colleague. That’s what truly set my experience apart and has remained true to this day.
Advice for Choosing an Internship
If you’re an accounting student thinking about where to intern, here’s what I’d recommend:
- Ask about the learning experience. What kind of work will you do? Will you have access to mentorship from leaders?
- Pay attention to the people. Culture is everything. Are they approachable? Supportive?
- Think beyond the internship. Does this feel like a place where you could gain the skills to shape your future?
An internship can be the first step in your career. For me, it was more than that. It was the beginning of a career I am passionate about and at a firm I respect.
Interested in exploring your own path from intern to accountant?
Learn more about our internship opportunities and how Maillie supports early talent
every step of the way. Your career in accounting could start here.
