<p>I just transferred from a State college to a University and will begin my Junior year as an Accounting Major and will begin taking upper-level accounting courses within the next two semesters. </p>
<p>The only work experience I have is from running an online business where I sell create and sell strategy guides for a video game. Other than that, nothing worth mentioning besides warehouse labor.</p>
<p>I want to make sure that I do all that I can from this point forward to best set myself up for good employment after I graduate which leads to the question in the thread title. </p>
<p>1) When is the earliest that I can start seeking relevant employment that will help me make the most of an Accounting degree once I graduate? </p>
<p>2) Do I have to wait until I have taken some upper-level accounting classes before I can qualify for a relevant job?</p>
<p>3) What types of positions/companies/work should I be focusing on?</p>
<p>1) You can start now. Either a part-time internship/job alongside college or a summer internship. You need to check the deadlines for any of the big companies for this coming summer. You might have missed the boat. However, you can start applying to local companies one the holidays are over. </p>
<p>2) Not necessarily. Look at the requirements of the larger internship schemes. You may find yourself making the tea and filing when you first start and gradually build up as they trust you. You could try to negotiate a certain type of experience you’re really keen on. This might make placing you easier. </p>
<p>3) You need to think about where you want to work, allowing for your grades. If you have a great GPA, look at the major national/international business like PWC.
Well known regional companies would be good if you’re good but not amazing. But think about your ethics. Do you want to work for big business? Non-profit? Health? Government? Law enforcement? Small practice? Would you enjoy a 60 hour week or are you 9-5 and then out to have a life? The field is wide. Make sure you research all the possibilities including the boring sounding ones so that you don’t miss anything. </p>
<p>Search for posters on your department notice boards. Ask your professors. Some of them may still have links with certain firms or know someone who does. Find out if your college does a recruitment fare? No harm in going to one a year early to scope things out. You could even see if the college accounts department might hold some possibilities.</p>