Price Kong Internship Program
An internship at a reputable accounting firm is an integral part of your learning experience. Choose a firm that will recognize you as an individual while providing hands-on training and real world experience.
Inclusion. Integration. Immersion.
Price Kong recognizes that the competition for accounting professionals is fierce, and that the accounting students of today are the firm’s future leaders. An internship with Price Kong is not only about gaining hands on tax, audit, and accounting experience. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the firm and all it has to offer, from training and teambuilding, to mentoring and collaboration. Once you step through our doors, you become a valued member of the Price Kong team with the ability to make a difference. Our goal is to ensure you complete your intership with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful accounting career, and a desire to come back after graduation to join our firm full-time.
The environment at Price Kong is friendly and appreciative of its employees. As long as you are dedicated to doing your best work, you will get everything you deserve.
In my previous internship, which wasn’t in tax, I only worked on one team and had one manager. At Price Kong, I worked with several managers and felt I was part of the entire tax team. Every return, client, and management style is a little different, which enabled me to strengthened my skills, adapt to different situations, use critical thinking, and contribute as an effective team player.
All coaches did an excellent job guiding the interns through various work papers, which provided hands on training while completing real work.
Why did you accept an internship at Price Kong?
MAKENNA: I chose Price Kong because to get hands on experience and take ownership of work. I wanted to work at a tax and audit firm where I could learn and grow. I met Price Kong at a “Meet the Firms” event on campus and I knew I wanted to work for Price Kong.
NOAH: I recognized the value that can be found working with smaller CPA firms in the form of diverse work experience as opposed to a narrow area of focus that one might see in a larger firm. I also could sense Price Kong would be a good fit for me from the beginning, at my interview.
What is the best advice you received during your internship at Price Kong?
LI: When you join the firm, you should envision yourself becoming a partner one day and put in the effort to make it happen.
MAKENNA: No question is a bad question. Always ask questions. Anyone around is willing to help. Keep learning because everyone is still learning how to be better everyday.
What did you learn about Price Kong that you didn't know before your internship?
MAKENNA: I learned the history of Price Kong, and more about what the firm’s values, mission, and goals are. Price Kong is innovative and demands excellence.
NOAH: I learned more about the Client Accounting and Advisory Services department, and the value-added services Price Kong provides to clients outside of attest and tax services. This is a dynamic department that will likely see growth in the future.
What steps were taken to help you feel integrated with the firm?
LI: My impression was that all accounting firms are known for their high levels of pressure; however, after joining Price Kong, I found that this firm does a great job of helping me get through the busiest seasons. Whether it’s the delicious food or the frequent team activities, everyone truly cares about your mental and physical well-being. This kind of support really makes me feel that we are a team. Most importantly, this is an accounting firm with warmth.
NOAH: During the first week, we had scheduled buddy lunches with smaller groups. These lunches allowed the interns to have more casual conversations and get to know team members in different departments, including audit, tax, and admin. In my opinion, this was very effective in helping the interns become acquainted with the firm as a whole.
What training and support did you receive during your internship?
LI: During my internship, I received both structured training and continuous support. At the beginning, there was an onboarding program that introduced us to the firm’s systems, audit methodology, and key tools, including Excel and audit software. Throughout the internship, I was supported by my supervisor and team members who were always willing to answer questions and provide guidance. I also participated in team meetings and training sessions, which helped me better understand the audit process and improve my technical and communication skills.
MAKENNA: First, I had my mentor, Wenjing. She spent the most time training me and I learned a lot from her. She was there the whole time, showing me how to process returns, as well as providing guidance and answering questions. I definitely appreciated and liked the support of having a mentor during my internship. I had a lot of support from the other tax team members as well, including partners and managers. There was always someone willing to help and answer questions. The entire team really rallied around me. I also appreciated the department’s process for assigning projects, which enabled me to work on a variety of returns, not just 1040s.
Describe any new skills, knowledge, and experience you gained during your internship?
LI: I gained hands-on experience in preparing and reviewing financial statements, understanding audit procedures, and working with audit software. I also improved my analytical thinking, attention to detail, and time management skills through real client engagements.
NOAH: This internship was my first experience the accounting industry. Other than academic course work, I had never been exposed to the work of an audit department. Additionally, I had yet to complete the intro audit course required for my degree. I gained knowledge and experience by working on different types of attest engagements, including audits, financial reviews, and compilations. I also learned about the different financial segments within engagements (eg. AP, AR, debt).
What advice would you give other students considering an internship at Price Kong?
LI: If you are looking for an opportunity with a great firm that provides diverse services, this is a great opportunity for you. Price Kong fosters relationships and provides a fun work environment where you can focus on developing your professional skills. If you enjoy a multicultural environment and empowering women in the workplace, this is definitely the best place for you.
MAKENNA: Have an open mind to try different positions. I wanted to intern in audit, but only a tax position was available. You never know if you will like it if you don’t try! I would have never known I wanted to go into tax if I wasn’t given the opportunity. I am so glad I did!
How would you describe Price Kong’s culture?
LI: Price Kong has a very easy going and diverse culture. I made a lot of friend there. Also, all the partners and managers are truly dedicated to growth and development. As long as you get the job done, it’s pretty much a happy land.
MAKENNA: Family. Everyone at Price Kong very much cares about each other and treats everyone like family.
NOAH: Traits of the Price Kong culture include:
- inclusivity
- collaboration
- growth mindset
- recognition and encouragement
- supportive leadership
- work-life balance
- team environment
Overall, what did you enjoy most about your internship at Price Kong?
LI: As an international student, is really hard to find a workplace to fit my culture. Price Kong is a place where everyone is respected and the team is willing to help you through anything, regardless of whether it is job or life related.
NOAH: I enjoyed working with and getting to know the team, as well as being able to learn from all team members. Firm events, lunches, dinners, and being invited to the after busy season trip before I was even being a full-time team member were also huge pros!
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