ISSN: 2225-8329
Open access
This study examines the impact of internship experiences on the communication competencies of accounting students, specifically analysing self-assessed growth in verbal, written and social communication from pre- to post-internship and final skill achievements. Using descriptive research design, primary data was gathered through a self-administered online survey of 44 accounting interns. The findings demonstrate substantial overall improvement in the students' perceived verbal, written and social communication skills following their internships. The growth was primarily driven by structured workplace interactions such as meetings and task clarifications with supervisors and managers, followed by discussions with colleagues, referencing audit reports and direct client interactions during audit fieldwork. These experiences led to high self-reported achievement across all five communication indicators as every respondent reported their ability to communicate pleasantly and professionally in the workplace. Consequently, these insights highlight the vital role real-world experience plays in developing student communication. It offers valuable guidance for universities to refine their curricula and internship programs to better prepare future accounting professionals.
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