Top 10 Minnesota-based firm CliftonLarsonAllen welcomed 60 students to 15 of its locations nationwide for the launch of its new internship program, which aims to give the next generation of accountants a glimpse of what the profession entails.
CLA received more than 400 applications in less than two weeks for this eight-week paid summer program, where interns will work in groups of four to gain experience in accounting, digital engagement, wealth management, audit and more.
"High school students have more career options available to them than ever before, and we believe it is vital to provide them with a glimpse into the professional services world at CLA," explained CLA CEO Jen Leary in a statement. "This program is designed to show the students not only what we do, but how an entrepreneur or small business owner operates. And we expect to learn as much from this group of students as they will learn from us. Our CLA family is excited to welcome them into our offices."
As the talent pool keeps shrinking, CLA wants to raise awareness about accounting careers while offering students hand-on experience with various professionals. Students will have various learning opportunities, including a real-life case study, a personality assessment, college preparatory sessions and connections with other U.S. high school interns. They'll also be able to research and nominate a local community organization for a CLA Foundation award.
As for students who were not selected for the internship, CLA will offer a one-day learning event called "Pathway to the Profession" later this summer.
"The overwhelming response to this internship program and flood of applications tells us that young people are interested in a more meaningful summer experience," said Pat Bowes, CLA's managing director of people solutions, in a press release. "This early exposure to the profession could spark passion in our interns that stays with them as they start to explore their future career paths."
