Peer Career Consultant Blogs

For students, securing an internship with one of the esteemed Big 4 accounting firms—Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young (EY), or KPMG—is not just a career goal; it's a significant milestone. These firms offer unparalleled opportunities for growth, learning, and networking. Not only will you learn professionally as an auditor, tax professional, or consultant, but you will also be able to absorb all of the necessary skills in the accounting industry. From personal and outside experience, this guide provides an overview of the Big 4 internship experience and offers insights into networking and making the most of this coveted opportunity.

Big 4 101:

• Local Presence: The Bay Area is home to numerous Big 4 offices, each with its unique focus, from technology and innovation to finance and healthcare. Understand the specific strengths of the office you'll be interning at and tailor your goals and expectations accordingly.
• Internship Programs: The Big 4 firms offer various internship programs, including explorational internships for first-year and second-year students, and summer internships for all students. Familiarize yourself with the options available and choose one that aligns with your academic schedule and career aspirations.

Networking Tips:

• Leverage Bay Area Resources: Take advantage of the vibrant business ecosystem in the Bay Area. Attend networking events hosted by the firms, industry conferences, and workshops when available. Schedule 1:1 coffee chat with professionals from the Big 4 and other companies to expand your network during your internship.
• SCU Alumni: SCU has a strong alumni presence in the Big 4 firms. Connect with alums at work via Linkedin or direct messaging during the internship. They would provide the most valuable insights for you as an intern/potential employee throughout your internship experience.
• Tech-Savvy Networking: Given the Bay Area's tech focus, embrace digital networking tools and platforms. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is polished and active. Join relevant professional groups and participate in online discussions to enhance your presence. 
• Cultivate Soft Skills: Hone your communication and interpersonal skills. Be an active listener, ask questions, and genuinely engage with professionals you meet. As most of my mentors and colleagues said, “Ask as many questions as you want; there’s no stupid questions. Just Ask.”

Maximizing Your Internship Experience:

• Engagement Diversity: Firms offer a wide array of client engagements. Directly express your interest in working on projects relevant to your career and personal goals. Seek opportunities to work on innovative and challenging assignments.
• Proactive Mindset: Embrace the entrepreneurial spirit of the Bay Area. Demonstrate your adaptability, creativity, and willingness to embrace change, as these qualities are highly valued in this dynamic region.
• The Bay Area Network: Take advantage of your time in the Bay Area offices to build a robust professional network. Attend events, meetups, and career fairs to connect with potential future employers and colleagues.

Getting a Big 4 internship in the Bay Area is a critical accomplishment for students. Hopefully, this guide offers you some insightful information on internship opportunities, office procedures, and the value of networking. For future success, it emphasizes developing a proactive mindset, broadening involvement, and establishing a solid professional network.