Beyond the Books: MPA Student Audits Internship With RSM

Payton Anderson '25, of Sherburn, Minnesota, is an accounting and business administration double major. He is also part of the Augustana Master of Professional Accountancy (MPA) Program. Anderson, a Viking Wrestling student-athlete, is interning with RSM - an assurance, tax and consulting services firm in downtown Sioux Falls. Through his internship, he has gained hands-on experience with assurance and audits.

Q: What are your career goals/aspirations?
A: My goals and aspirations for my career are to obtain my Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) license and hopefully get into the sports finance/accounting field.

Q: Where or how did you hear about Augustana?
A: I was recruited for wrestling. My grandpa's brother, Dave Cain ('76), also wrestled for this program in the '70s and was an All-American.

Q: What is/are the reason(s) you chose to come to Augustana?
A: The great academics and great people. I have met some of my best friends at this place. Augustana only brings in the best and brightest people and students. Also, the opportunity to continue playing sports, which I love.

Q: What will your job duties include?
A: Audit/Assurance - the process of analyzing accounts or documents and issuing a professional opinion about their accuracy and completeness.

Q: How did you get the internship? Did anyone help you?
A: To get my internship, I made sure to get on my applications early - almost a year in advance. Along with using LinkedIn, which is a great resource for finding jobs and internships.

Q: What do you like most about your internship?
A: The people I have worked with at RSM have been nothing but inviting. They are all willing to answer any questions and help work through problems with me. Along with all the great opportunities that this internship will bring in the future.

Q: What do you hope to learn/gain from the internship?
A: I hope to learn and gain what it's actually like to practice accounting in my day-to-day life. I also hope to gain valuable connections with my co-workers.

Q: Why is experiential learning important to you in your future endeavors?
A: In the accounting field, there are so many options of places to work that it's important to experiment with different types of jobs to really know what you will love to do. Getting more experience helps you also learn your strengths and weaknesses, and helps you build on those areas.

Q: How important is building relationships/connections?
A: Building relationships and connections is crucial in almost every business field. Networking can open doors to new opportunities, partnerships and collaborations that might not be accessible otherwise. By establishing a broad network, you gain access to exclusive job opportunities and valuable mentorship, which can provide guidance and support throughout your career.

Learn about the 2,000+ jobs and internships posted annually by the Augustana University Student Success Center at Augie Opportunities.

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