This week CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP), the eighth largest accounting firm in the US, launched its innovative and ground-breaking high school internship program by welcoming 60 students to 15 of its offices across the country.
This first-of-its-kind program is designed to not only provide the students with a glimpse into the world of accounting and professional services, but also guide CLA in ways to recruit the next generation of business leaders.
CLA received more than 400 applications in less than two weeks for this inaugural program. The eight-week paid summer internship program welcomes four interns in each of the 15 participating CLA locations. More than a summer job, the interns will receive tangible, hands-on experience in the world of accounting, audit, wealth management, digital engagement, 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,” says Jen Leary, CEO of CLA. “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.”
The number of young people choosing careers in accounting is declining and CLA is leading the charge to reach students even earlier as they contemplate future careers. The internship program's goal is not only to provide an exceptional experience for the students, but also seek to inspire more high school students to better understand all the opportunities the profession has to offer.
Pat Bowes, CLA’s Managing Director of People Solutions, says the overwhelming response to this internship program and flood of applications tells us that young people are interested in a more meaningful summer experience. “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.”
The students will participate in engaging learning opportunities, including a hands-on case study, a personality assessment, college preparatory sessions and connections with other high school interns around the country. They also will have the chance to research and nominate a local community organization for a CLA Foundation award and enjoy some fun activities along the way.
In addition, CLA will be offering a one-day learning event called “Pathway to the Profession” later this summer for students not selected for the internship.
About CLA
CLA exists to create opportunities for our clients, our people, and our communities through industry-focused wealth advisory, digital, audit, tax, consulting and outsourcing services. With more than 8,500 people, nearly 130 US locations, and a global vision, it promises to know you and help you. CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) is an independent network member of CLA Global. Investment advisory services are offered through CliftonLarsonAllen Wealth Advisors LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.
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