This is an interview with Annabel Minor, a senior accounting major who interned with Crews and Associates summer of 2024 in Little Rock, Arkansas. She shared her insights into her experience, and advice for fellow students looking for internships.

Where did you intern this past summer and what was your role?

This past summer I had the opportunity to intern with Crews & Associates in Little Rock, Arkansas. Crews & Associates is a full-service investment banking firm that has served the community for more than 40 years. They’ve built a strong reputation nationwide for helping individuals, communities, and other institutions navigate changing markets and exceed financial goals.

A few of my everyday responsibilities as an accounting intern included updating the company’s inventory, recording journal entries, and assisting in sending payments. I also had the opportunity to help with month-end tasks such as account reconciliations, reviewing expense analysis reports, and much more.

How did you find out about this internship opportunity?

I learned about this opportunity by researching available internships in my area. LinkedIn and Handshake are two great networking tools that students can use to research individuals, companies, and internship opportunities in their region.

LinkedIn is especially helpful for students working on personal branding, professional networking, and gaining company insights. As I mentioned earlier, it also provides internship opportunities. Handshake, on the other hand, allows students to find companies that match their specific needs while also offering exclusive opportunities for universities that use the platform.

Did this experience change your career goals or perspective on your field?

This experience reinforced my passion for accounting and my interest in pursuing a career in the field. I gained more knowledge and broadened my perspective on the various paths available within accounting.

How did this internship help you grow professionally and personally?

Through this internship, I gained valuable communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. I believe these experiences have helped me become a better leader and a stronger future employee.

Did you have opportunities to network with professionals in your industry?

Yes, I had many opportunities to build personal connections with professionals within the company. I listened to their valuable advice and asked important questions that I felt would help me advance in my professional career.

What was the best advice you received from a mentor or supervisor?

Some of the best advice I received from my supervisor and coworkers was to always ask questions. They emphasized the importance of understanding the work I was doing. Asking questions, clarifying concepts, and seeking to learn more demonstrated my commitment and helped solidify the knowledge I gained in both the classroom and the workplace.

What advice would you give to students looking for internships?

Don’t be afraid to reach out to local businesses when searching for an internship. SAU Career Services also hosts a career and internship fair, which is a great opportunity for students to connect with potential employers.