A Summer at PBS: My Finance Internship

My internship with PBS Finance this past summer was an invaluable experience that provided me with a practical understanding of financial operations within a major non-profit media organization. I spent ten weeks immersed in a dynamic environment, contributing to various projects that broadened my skills and solidified my interest in pursuing a career in finance.

One of my primary responsibilities involved assisting with the preparation of financial reports. This included gathering data from various sources, analyzing trends, and ensuring accuracy. I worked closely with the finance team to reconcile accounts, investigate discrepancies, and prepare supporting documentation. This hands-on experience provided me with a deeper understanding of accounting principles and the importance of meticulous record-keeping.

Beyond financial reporting, I also had the opportunity to contribute to budget development and monitoring. I assisted in creating budget templates, collecting departmental budget requests, and analyzing budget variances. This gave me insight into the complexities of managing finances in a large organization and the need for careful planning and forecasting. I learned how various departments within PBS contribute to the overall financial picture and how strategic financial decisions are made to support the organization’s mission.

A particularly interesting project involved researching and analyzing industry benchmarks for similar non-profit organizations. This research helped PBS to evaluate its own financial performance and identify areas for improvement. I gained valuable experience in conducting comparative analysis and presenting findings in a clear and concise manner. This project highlighted the importance of staying informed about industry trends and best practices to ensure financial sustainability.

Throughout my internship, I was consistently impressed by the dedication and expertise of the PBS finance team. They were always willing to share their knowledge and provide guidance, creating a supportive and collaborative learning environment. I had the opportunity to network with professionals from various departments within PBS, gaining a broader understanding of the organization’s overall operations.

This internship at PBS significantly enhanced my understanding of finance within the non-profit sector. I developed practical skills in financial reporting, budgeting, and analysis, while also gaining valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing non-profit organizations. The experience solidified my passion for finance and provided me with a strong foundation for future career endeavors. I am grateful for the opportunity to have contributed to the important work of PBS and am confident that the skills and knowledge I gained will serve me well in my future career.