Suggestions for securing a promising accounting internship...

1. You should know this: "The Big Four" are PWC, E&Y, KPMG, and Deloitte.

2. If you don't know what those stand for, I hope you're not going into accounting, and in that case, it really doesn't matter that you know.

3. Be prepared to go to recruiting events and chit chat--with potential bosses AND with all the people in the room that are competing against you for the same internship (talk about difficult conversation).

4. Have a personality--believe it or not, accounting firms actually look for personality during your interview--so if you don't have one, Christian suggests you make one up.

5. Like every industry, every company has a different culture, so get to know the people that are at a certain company. Could you really work with them??

6. Could you really work with them for 55 hours a week and/or until 2 in the morning during "busy season."

7. Unfortunately, it's not just about the numbers...you can have good grades, but it takes more to sell yourself. When you are preparing for an interview, consider what they're considering: How will you be in front of a client--could I send this person out to represent the firm tomorrow?, Does this person have sales and management skills?, and Does this person know how to lead and take initiative on a project? Will they be easy to work with and fit in here?

8. Be prepared with specific examples from your past of how you demonstrate the qualities listed above. And don't try to be someone you're not just to fit in (unless of course you are just making up your personality...then you might as well).

9. Be prepared to hear the words "you gotta pay your dues" a lot.

10. If your significant other is planning to be an accountant, you best find your own interest(s) to occupy you for 55 hours a week. That way, you won't have to be a sad puppy waiting for them to come home every night. (Any suggestions of what hobbies I should start?)