Newsletter Archive

Calling All Interns!

by Kelly Samuel
Campus Recruiting Manager
PricewaterhouseCoopers

As you start to prepare for internship or student leadership recruiting this quarter, I wanted to pass along a few words for the wise about the process and key dates.

First, go online and visit your career center website. The website will list all of the resume submission deadlines. Write it down on your calendar. Many firms will not take late submissions, so DO NOT wait until the last minute to apply.

Second, visit each firm's website to learn more about them. In addition, review the career center website for career fairs and other information sessions firms may have set up on campus.

Next you will want to try to attend as many events as possible to network and find a firm that fits your personality and future goals. Although each firm may seem similar, they each have their own unique culture and internship program. At these events, make sure to introduce yourself to the recruiter or other managers and partners. Many times, these will be the same people interviewing on campus. Of course, you will not want to exclude the Associates and Seniors. They will be the people you will work with most of the time during your internship and can be very helpful once you start.

Hint: Always say your first and last name and make good eye contact with a firm handshake when introducing yourself.

Hint: Do not ask the recruiter if they remember your name. Recruiters meet hundreds of people a week. They usually do remember a lot of people, but feel uncomfortable when put on the spot. We are only human and can draw a blank as well at times.
You are now ready to apply online. Be aware of the list of items the firm would like you to complete for the application process and follow directions. Many times you have to apply through the career center and also through the firm's website.

Hint: Make note of the pre-select date on your calendar. This is the date the firms will email you to let you know if you have received a first round interview. It is up to you to sign up for an interview slot, which is on a first come, first serve basis.

Skip ahead a few weeks and hurray! You have an offer from not one, but ALL of the Big Four Firms! Now what do you do? Many people end up going with their gut feeling, some follow their friends… you are receiving calls and emails out of your ears and you don't know what to do.

Here is what I recommend... Again, go online and review each firm to learn more about their strengths and weaknesses. Talk to people that you have met throughout the process to get answers to your questions. Do not let one firm pressure you into making a decision you are not ready for. Many internships lead to full time positions, so you want to make sure you make the right choice.

The Big Four can not extend offers until MARCH 1st and you have a deadline of APRIL 1st to make your decision for ALL OF THE BIG FOUR firms. So take your time, weigh your options, and do what is right for you.

Last two hints:

1) Internships are competitive. If you do not receive one, make sure to apply during the full time recruiting process.

2) PwC's resume due date is February 7th. We interview on February 15th.

See you all on campus!