ATKG’s internship program introduces college students not only to the general world of public accounting but also to the special world of ATKG. Lot’s of training, mentoring and support surround this hands-on internship experience, which includes tax return prep, accounting, consulting and more.
Jackie Amador and Ryan Fluegge recently completed ATKG’s internship program and are now full-time staff. Check out what they had to say about their internship experience, what they learned, and what advice they have for college students.
What made you want to intern at ATKG?
Jackie: ATKG’s unique culture and happy staff. It’s friendly.
Ryan: The culture and team atmosphere.
Were you nervous before starting your internship?
Jackie: Yes, mostly because I knew public accounting can be hard and overwhelming. However, ATKG made the learning experience so smooth and stress-free.
Ryan: Very nervous. It was my first public accounting experience.
What did you learn during your internship experience?
Jackie: What did I not learn?! Professionally, during the 4 months of my internship, every day was a new learning experience. I was exposed to a little bit of everything on what the firm does. Also, I learned that public accounting can be fun if you are in the right firm with the right people.
Ryan: I learned how to prepare different types of tax returns and how to complete various tasks that feed into the tax return. I learned about a wide range of industries.
Did anything surprise you while interning at ATKG?
Ryan: I was surprised how helpful and friendly everyone was whenever I had a question or needed help with something.
Jackie: The healthy working atmosphere – everyone is so helpful and caring of others. As an intern, and even now as a staff, you are always offered a helping hand.
What was your favorite moment of your internship?
Jackie: I loved all the random fun activities like the on-site massages, group lunches, etc. My favorite moment was the 4/15 tax deadline party. There was a cash cube, and I scored $180!
Ryan: Probably the Charity Ping Pong Tournament that the summer interns hosted for the firm.
What would you tell college students currently looking for internship opportunities?
Ryan: Make sure you look for a company that has a culture that your life and best fits you.
Jackie: Don’t limit your opportunities on searching for internships. Get to know local firms. They can offer great professional growth and experiences.
What advice do you have for a new ATKGer before starting his or her internship?
Ryan: Don’t be afraid to ask any questions. Everyone is super friendly and willing to help you learn.
Jackie: Firstly, make sure you take advantage of ATKG’s open-door policy and ask questions. Secondly, get involved in the fun activities available. It makes your time here even more fun.
How has your experience changed now that you have transitioned to full-time staff?
Jackie: It really hasn’t changed much besides the expected additional responsibilities. The fun, flexibility, and learning still goes on every day!
Ryan: Same as Jackie. The transition to staff was simple.
Ryan Fluegge first joined ATKG as an intern in the summer of 2019 and is now a member of the ATKG staff. A 2019 graduate of Texas State University, Ryan received a bachelor’s degrees in both accounting and finance.
Jackie Amador completed her internship at ATKG in the spring of 2019 and joined the ATKG staff immediately after. Jackie graduated Cum Laude in 2018 from St. Mary’s University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting.
Let your adventure begin!
For more information about ATKG’s internship program, visit our internship page.
Have questions? Contact Amy Kaster at 210.293.5351 or akaster@atkgcpa.com.
