Three Point Park University Accounting Majors Intern at Big Four Firm PricewaterhouseCoopers
"PwC is one of the Big Four public accounting firms and these internships are very competitive. That three of our students secured these internships demonstrates the quality of our program and the truly exceptional talent of our students."
Three Point Park University accounting majors participated in Start - PwC's diversity internship, a four-week virtual experience due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Below, the students highlight their internship experiences at one of the Big Four firms.
Meet Lexie Balkovec '21
Major: Accounting
Minor: Business Management
College activities: Student Accounting Association, Surgent CPA Student Ambassador, Institute of Internal Auditors Student Ambassador
Hometown: Brentwood, Pa.
High School: Brentwood High School
Dream job: CFO of a large corporation
Why did you choose Point Park University’s accounting program?
I chose Point Park University’s accounting program for many reasons. First and foremost because of the professors — they have pushed me more than I could have imagined. It is truly special when all of your professors care about your career and future. Furthermore, the program has so many networking opportunities which have allowed me to get noticed by companies like PwC.
Tell us about your key responsibilities as an intern at PwC?
This internship was highly rewarding but looked different due to the COVID-19 pandemic. My internship was completely virtual, so it was my responsibility to follow the schedule put in place by my superiors.
I completed Excel training and data analytics training that focused on programs like Tableau, Alteryx and UiPath. The majority of my time was spent working on a data analytics group project to create a presentation for a client organization. My group presented to a partner in the firm which gave me first-hand experience on how to deliver a professional presentation.
I also spent a lot of time learning about the company’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity which made my experience that much more fulfilling.
What have been your favorite Point Park experiences thus far?
I have really enjoyed being a part of the Student Accounting Association. I have met so many amazing people that have become great friends and I have been given so many opportunities, such as serving as a student leader and an ambassador. I truly cannot say enough good things about the students and professors in the accounting program!
Meet Anjinee Carlisle '21
Double majoring in: Accounting and Information Technology
College activities: Information Technology Student Organization and Student Accounting Association
Hometown: Lansing, Mich.
High school: Everett High School
Dream job: I haven't discovered my dream job yet.
How is Point Park’s accounting program making you career-ready?
The courses I have taken have been very helpful in building my knowledge of accounting. I am learning real-world examples of how to apply what I'm learning.
What did you enjoy most during your internship and why?
What I enjoyed most about my internship with PwC was all of the different people we got to interact with and the building of knowledge. The entire experience helped me understand the workplace culture and what they are striving to become. It was a very impactful experience even though it was virtual.
Is there anything else you would like to add about Point Park or your internship?
I am excited to continue learning all that I can this year from my accounting courses, and I am looking forward to my advanced internship with PwC next summer.
Meet Riley Norman '21
Major: Accounting
College activities: Competitive Cheer and Dance, Student Accounting Association, Point Park Tour Guide and Pioneer Ambassador
Hometown: Moon Township, Pa.
High school: Moon Area High School
Dream job: Open an accounting firm with my brother
How did you land an internship with PwC?
A recent Point Park graduate contacted me to share that his internship experience landed him a job offer. I felt I was ready to take the next step toward in career.
How did Point Park’s faculty and classes prepare you to succeed in your internship?
The faculty and classes at Point Park have helped me grow not only as an individual, but as a professional. I have developed academic skills while rounding out myself to be career-ready in the professional world.
What are your career goals?
After Point Park, I will go to graduate school for my Master's in Accounting and work towards earning my CPA license. I was fortunate enough to receive an offer for a summer 2021 internship at PwC, which will hopefully turn into a full-time job offer. After that, I would love to continue my career at PwC and see all that life has to offer.
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