written by Stuart Roach
Kris Willenbrecht, a business major with an emphasis in Finance relates his story working for one of the accounting big four, KPMG. Kris had an opportunity working in a different sector of KPMG than most interns here from BYU. Kris worked in KPMG’s Structured Finance division, read more and find out how it went.
Where did you intern this summer?
I worked for KPMG accounting firm in L.A./Irvine Offices
What was your role at KPMG?
I worked on the financial risk management team, working on engagements related to credit risk or structured finance. I worked on model validation engagements. I worked with investment banks on transactions, and debt products like CDOs. We worked as an independent party helping validate what the investment banks had done on their models. We did a lot of audit assists.
What tools did you gain personally?
Since I was less experienced than a full-time associate, I was put on engagements where advanced modeling skills were not necessary. I was mostly put on engagements working with due diligence and student loans, making sure the student loan process goes through.
Where did you grow?
I feel like my project management skills increased significantly. I learned how to start, organize, carry out and record the process of a project and see that project out until it was finished. I feel like my project management skills got better.
What was the culture like at KPMG?
The people there are very accepting, welcoming and fun. KPMG tends to be a more fun environment. I was getting taken out to lunch every day. They treat their interns very well. They really want what’s best for you.
Would you recommend the internship?
I would definitely recommend the internship because for one, the advisory practice within an accounting firm is a little different than just your regular audit and tax. It might be more interesting, I think you get paid more, and you get to work on a variety of different projects rather than just doing the same thing every day.
What steps should I take to get the internship?
- Start early in making contacts with a specific group
- Start networking and establishing relationships
- Maintain a high GPA
- Get related work experience
- Go to eRecruiting.
Feel free to contact Kris at kriswillen@gmail.com