From Accounting to Professional Consolidation: Lessons from an Internship Journey

The internship in the accounting field was a valuable experience in my professional journey, not only because of the opportunity to engage in the field’s practices but also for the human and professional lessons I learned during this period. Although my career was already well-established in another area, I decided to take on this experience because I firmly believe there is always something new to learn, regardless of where you are in your professional path.

The Beginning: An Opportunity and a Challenge

It all started with an interview at Suifit, where I encountered an unexpected obstacle. During the hiring process, an HR professional claimed that I lacked the “necessary experience,” despite my 14 years of career experience, an MBA, and a specialization. This perception led to deep reflections. How can experience and knowledge be so easily overlooked? Similar situations occurred in other contexts, such as during an application for a master’s degree program, where the same justification was used to question my capabilities.

These episodes revealed more about the perceptions and biases in the job market than about my own skills. They taught me that the corporate world does not always value experience as it should and often focuses on stereotypes or behavioral expectations that do not necessarily align with reality.

The Internship Experience

During the internship, I had the pleasure of working with incredible people. The team was welcoming and collaborative, creating a light and supportive environment conducive to learning. It was particularly enriching to observe the dynamics of the accounting field, which broadened my professional perspective.

However, there were personal challenges. Some colleagues suggested that I did not have the demeanor of a “corporate shark,” a comment that initially came across as a criticism. Additionally, a younger colleague mentioned that I seemed more concerned about my legal image than about the routine functions of the internship. This perception, while uncomfortable, made me reflect on how my prior experiences shaped my professional approach.

An Unforgettable Lesson

Among everyone, there was a colleague who saw something great in me. She believed in my potential and boosted my confidence during moments of doubt. I am grateful for this, as she was one of the few who looked beyond appearances and valued my professional and personal background.

The Decision to Move Forward

At the end of the internship, it became clear that while the experience was enriching, my passion and expertise lay elsewhere. My career was already established, and the internship served as a confirmation that I should focus on areas where I could make the most significant impact. The decision to leave was not due to dissatisfaction but a clear sense of purpose.

Final Reflection

This journey as an accounting intern brought me more than technical knowledge; it offered me reflections on how the job market perceives professionals with diverse profiles. I faced biases, but I also found support from people who saw beyond the surface.

The experience reminded me that, regardless of what others say about us, it is essential to remain true to our journey and believe in our potential. In the end, what truly matters is not others' perceptions but the impact we leave in our work and with those we interact with.