Internship Spotlight: Vu Le, Deloitte

Vu Le '24 BSBA (Accounting & Management Information Systems) was an Audit & Assurance Intern at Deloitte in Seattle, WA.

What was the process for getting this internship, job, or summer experience?

My internship search process began early on, starting from my freshman year. I understood the importance of gaining practical experiences & making connections in Accounting/ Audit, so I began preparing myself by researching internship opportunities and developing my skills and resume. I involved myself in clubs and on campus jobs from AZA, Student Lead for the AZ Student Unions, Tutor for THINKTANK, Intern then a Student Ambassador for Eller Tech Core, etc. I tried to explore all vastly different and unique positions to know what I like and want to expect for an internship. 

What did you learn?

My experience at Deloitte has exposed me to a positive and open work environment. I have had the opportunity to interact with high-level individuals such as Directors and Partners, and I have found them to be approachable and willing to share knowledge. The support and willingness to help from everyone in the company have been remarkable.

Additionally, my internship debunks the myth that audit work is repetitive and limited to journal entries. I have had the chance to work on diverse projects, testing different controls for clients from various industries. The work has been dynamic and ever-changing, providing me with a new appreciation for the complexity and variety within the field of audit.

What advice do you have for other students looking for a similar experience, or advice for future students to be successful?

The "real deal" when it comes to internships at Deloitte has turned out to be quite different from what I initially expected. I had assumed that interns would be expected to possess a certain level of knowledge and proficiency before starting, given the nature of the work which involves accounting rules and regulations. However, it turns out that the Deloitte seniors don't actually have such expectations from interns. Instead, they encourage us to be like “sponges”, ready to absorb and learn everything they have to offer. This approach has been both surprising and valuable, as it has allowed me to gain hands-on experience and learn directly from experienced professionals in the field.

How did Eller prepare you for this experience?

I utilized various resources and engaged with different individuals and resources. One of the key resources was the Meet The Firms & D Stress With Deloitte allowed me to connect with recruiters in a casual setting; it enabled me to gain insights into the company culture, internship opportunities, and valuable advice on the application process. Attending every career fair possible during my sophomore year allowed me to explore a wide range of internship options and connect with representatives from different companies. It also provided an opportunity to learn more about specific industries and gain valuable insights into the internship application process.

In addition to career fairs,  I reached out to professors, seniors in my program, family, & friends. My mom had experiences in a similar industry, so she was able to guide me in the process.