Ashley J. Brooks: BBA in Accounting, class of 2011

Employer:
PricewaterhouseCoopers

Title:
Intern

During the course of my internship, I: 

• Worked with IFS (Internal Firm Services), which included but wasn't limited to US IT, Records Management, Marketing Events and Office Services.
• Shadowed individuals in Audit & Tax, learning more about what they do and what a typical day is like in their shoes.
• Participated in the firm's Intern Day of Service. This year we volunteered at the Boys & Girls Club.
• Was able to experience the firm from an internal perspective. I was issued a firm-branded laptop and company e-mail, and accessed the same databases as full-time employees.
• Built meaningful relationships with individuals that were first-year associates through the partner level.

What I liked most about my internship was:  

• The variety of the work.
• The people I had the opportunity to interact with.
• The open door policy (everyone was very down-to-earth).
• The exposure I gained to clients, services the firm provides, the different groups I may work with in the future, and the professional services work environment.

The undergraduate program in the Robinson College of Business has helped me achieve my career goals because:  

• The Career Management Center (CMC) assisted me with creating a resume that was employer-ready. (Thanks Tiara!)
• The CMC provided multiple events where many top employers were present. (Accounting Employer's Showcase, Robinson Career Expo)
• It offers an accounting program that is second to none, truly preparing students for the next level. (Thanks Allison!)
• It provided me with wonderful advisors.
• It prepared me for the next level. (technical skills and soft skills)

 What I like most about attending Robinson:

• The variety of classes I am able to attend.
• The experienced and well-versed professors.
• The wealth of information I received regarding study abroad programs, master's programs, the CPA Exam and various certifications that are available.

Words of advice or encouragement I would to give current students or recent grads:

• Take advantage of the many resources that Robinson has to offer. They will always keep you well-informed about what's going on, but you also have to take the initiative and be proactive about your career and education.
• Networking is just as important as "making the grade."
• Sharpen your interview, presentation and people skills. These skills in my opinion count for a lot and help people attach a memorable face to a name/resume.

What else would you like to add that may be of interest to students or other alums?

• Be sure to join organizations that are specific to your career. If you can't find any, then join a business organization and make yourself stand out.

Ashley J. Brooks
Intern,
PricewaterhouseCoopers
BBA, class of 2011
Accounting