TL/DR Take the Assessment of Community, Engagement, and Belonging survey to share your thoughts/feelings and be entered into a raffle for $$ or UMBC merch. But act fast, because the survey closes on May 1. 

We need more student input, like yours! Yes, you. No, not them...ok maybe that person too, but mostly you. 

• Retriever dollars ($25.00 per award) 
• Flex dollars ($25.00 per award) 
• UMBC swag Scan the QR code to take the survey! \

Name: Hiya Patel

Pronouns: She/Her

Semester of Internship: Spring 2024

Major: Double Major in Information Systems and Financial Economics with An Accounting Certificate

Current Class Level: Senior

This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)

Location of the Organization (City, State): Baltimore, Maryland

Title of position: External Audit Intern

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
As an External Audit Intern at PwC, I assist with audit procedures such as reviewing financial statements, testing account balances, and evaluating internal controls. I attend team meetings to discuss progress, collaborate with clients to gather information, and help prepare workpapers. This role provides hands-on experience in auditing, enhancing my technical skills and client interaction.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?:
I learned about the PwC External Audit Internship in summer 2024 when the application opened for the winter/spring 2026 session. I applied as soon as the application became available, submitting my resume and cover letter. After that, I waited for an interview to showcase my skills and interest in the position.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?:
PwC website

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?:
I’ve enjoyed most about my position as an audit intern at PwC is the opportunity to collaborate and communicate effectively with my team and clients. I’ve appreciated the supportive environment, where everyone is willing to help and guide me. Building connections with colleagues and learning from their experiences has been a valuable part of my internship.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?:
I believe I’ve made an impact through my work by contributing to the efficiency and accuracy of the audit process. By carefully assisting with audit procedures, reviewing financial statements, and collaborating with my team, I’ve helped ensure that clients receive thorough and reliable audit results. My attention to detail and proactive approach have allowed me to support the team effectively, allowing for smoother client interactions and timely project completion.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?:
My advice to student seeking an internship or similar experience is to focus on making connections rather than thinking you need to know everything. Attend career fairs, network on LinkedIn, and build relationships with professionals in your field. It’s not just about having the knowledge, but also about demonstrating your ability to connect, learn from others, and show your enthusiasm for the role. Building a network can open doors and provide opportunities that go beyond just your technical skills.

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center:
The Career Center help me prepare for the application process, offering valuable resources, and providing the confidence to pursue this opportunity. Additionally, they supported me in adjusting to the challenge of balancing a full internship while taking six classes, helping me manage my time effectively and stay on track with both my academic and professional goals.

In today's job landscape, distinguishing yourself from a sea of applicants requires more than just a polished resume. It's about strategic branding, proactive engagement, and showcasing your unique value. Here are some strategies to help you shine:

1. Define and Own Your Personal Brand

Your personal brand helps communicate your strengths, passions, and what you bring to an organization. Crafting a compelling personal brand involves identifying what you’re good at and aligning them with your career goals. A well-articulated brand can set you apart and make you memorable to potential employers.

2. Go Beyond the Application Portal

While online applications are standard, they often place you among countless other candidates. To stand out, engage in proactive outreach by connecting with professionals in your desired field through networking events, LinkedIn, and Retrievers Connect. Personal connections can lead to referrals, which has shown to increase your chances of being hired significantly.

3. Master the Art of Storytelling

Employers are drawn to candidates who can effectively communicate their experiences and achievements. Utilize techniques such as STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) in your interviews to convey how you've overcome challenges and contributed to previous organizations. This approach makes your experiences more relatable and impactful.

4. Demonstrate Your Value Before You're Hired

Showcasing your skills through tangible examples can leave a lasting impression. Consider creating a portfolio of work, writing industry-related articles or blog posts, or developing digital content that highlights your expertise. By providing evidence of your capabilities, you position yourself as a proactive and valuable candidate.

5. Cultivate Resilience and Stay in Motion

The job search process can be challenging, with rejections and setbacks along the way. Maintaining a resilient mindset and continuously seeking opportunities for growth, such as through the Paws & Pivot webinar series, can keep you motivated. Remember, each experience is a stepping stone toward your ultimate career goals.

Next Steps to Stand Out

Ready to put these strategies into action? Attend the Keys to Success virtual workshop on "Standing Out” on Monday, April 28 at 12 noon to learn actionable strategies on how to build exposure and enhance your skills. Register here and take a proactive step toward standing out in the job market!