As a rising senior, I reflect on the period of transformation I have encountered since the start of college. From a bright-eyed freshman to a well-rounded graduate, it is inevitable to move on and discover how you can change the world. Where that journey starts is determined by you.
 
As a college student, this is my first internship at a public accounting firm. Cohen & Company offers the opportunity for interns to learn how to grow and develop as young adults. The firm shapes us to be responsible, diligent and caring. 

Cohen & Company trusts that interns will be responsible for managing their time wisely and accomplishing their work. I have had several responsibilities during my internship, including determining my own schedule, helping plan the annual Milwaukee Brewers tailgate and managing my workload. Because I can pick the days I work remotely and in the office, I know that if I need to run my dog to the vet, I can log off to do so and log back on to finish my work. At the Milwaukee office, my fellow interns and I are tasked with planning the annual Brewers tailgate — an exciting event to plan and balance with my normal workload. 

Employees at Cohen & Company are diligent — everyone is willing to go the extra mile to help accomplish a goal. They are always striving to perform at a high level, while maintaining a positive attitude. The firm helps foster this high level of performance by providing regular opportunities to gain feedback and improve through performance reviews. At multiple points throughout the internship, I have received a performance review, which has helped me learn how to accomplish tasks better and enhance my skills. The firm has faith in its interns’ abilities to take on challenging tasks. 

People at Cohen & Company genuinely care about other. The firm’s Cohen Cares initiative offers community service opportunities in which interns can pick a service event and volunteer for up to four hours. This shows that as an organization, Cohen & Company cares about its people and community. 

Cohen & Company offers an incredible environment to learn and round out technical and business skills. It’s clear that the firm shapes their interns to be responsible, resilient and caring. The internship is a great first step toward the next chapter after college. I’m excited to see where it will take me! 

Samantha Larson, Marquette University