At DZA, we’re proud to offer more than just internships. We offer real growth, hands-on experience, and a welcoming culture that values learning and curiosity. One of our most recent success stories is Alyssa Welton, who joined us as an intern in January 2024 and is now thriving in her new role as a full-time staff accountant. We asked her to reflect on her experience and what it’s been like to grow professionally with DZA.
Meet Alyssa
Originally from Spokane, Washington, Alyssa recently graduated from Washington State University in May 2025 with a double major in Accounting and Entrepreneurship and a minor in German. While her academic journey was diverse, it was her love for numbers and a conversation with local business owners that sparked her interest in accounting.
“I’ve always had a passion for numbers. Even as a kid, I would challenge myself to count as high as I could. At first, I thought I wanted to pursue mechanical engineering and entrepreneurship—mainly because I dreamed of owning a business. To explore this, I spoke with the owners of a local bowling alley. They told me something that stuck with me: “Anyone can be a business owner, but not everyone can be an accountant.” They explained that accountants are expensive, and if I wanted to make a real impact on a business, becoming an accountant would allow me to reduce that cost. That conversation made me rethink my path and opened my eyes to a whole new way I could help businesses thrive.”
Why DZA?
Like many college students, Alyssa was looking for an internship that fit her busy schedule and her career goals. She found DZA on Handshake, a job searching platform catered towards internships and first jobs, and quickly realized it was the right fit.
“As a busy and broke college student, I wanted something remote and in my field of study. I sent in my resume and got a message back about interviews the very next day. I had never had such a welcoming experience, and that continued throughout the entire interview process.”
A Year and a Half of Learning by Doing
What started as a remote internship turned into a year and a half of real-world learning. Alyssa contributed to a variety of projects, including Medicare Cost Reports, audits, feasibility studies, and Tax Form 990s, just to name a few.
“I started in January 2024, and it was so amazing, I stayed on. I’ve been with DZA for a year and a half now, and am working full-time. Even after all this time, I’m still learning new things.”
Breaking the Stereotype
Something that surprised Alyssa about working at DZA was the personality and energy of the team.
“The biggest surprise was the people. Accountants have this stereotype of being introverted and boring, but I have not found that to be true here. Everyone is bubbly, nice, and willing to help. It’s just a fun group of people to work with.”
Support That Goes Beyond the Job
DZA doesn’t just provide technical training. We also focus on professional development and client-facing skills.
“When I started in January 2024, I had no technical knowledge of accounting. But DZA didn’t just teach me the technical skills—I also learned how to conduct myself professionally with clients. As an intern, I had the opportunity to engage with clients on a range of topics, which allowed me to grow both technically and professionally.”
Looking Ahead: Building a Career at DZA
Now that she’s officially a staff accountant, Alyssa is excited for what lies ahead in her career.
“I’m excited to keep building my skills in different areas and to keep working on client relationships. I’m still learning and growing every day.”
Real Talk: Advice for Future Interns
Alyssa’s advice to students thinking about a career in auditing or public accounting is honest and encouraging.
“Don’t do it… just kidding. Public accounting can be hard. You rely on the client, manage your busy workload, work on information from a year before the current one, and sometimes you feel stuck in that prior year. But the knowledge and skills you gain through those challenges are irreplaceable. It’s not as scary as it seems. We’re all working together toward the same goal, which is a successful audit. And your questions aren’t dumb. I promise, someone else has asked them too.”
For those considering DZA specifically, Alyssa had this to say:
“I know it’s kind of cliché, but DZA really does have a family-like feel. Everyone is very encouraging and willing to help you when you ask. I have never been scared to ask a manager or senior for help. Since we’re a smaller firm, you actually get to know your coworkers. It’s not like there’s a big, scary CEO watching over you. DZA’s culture is very positive and uplifting.”
Personal Reflection and Looking Forward
Balancing an internship and full-time school was no small task, but Alyssa wouldn’t change a thing.
“It was difficult being an intern and a full-time student, but it taught me time management, organization, and gave me so much knowledge. DZA was always incredibly understanding about my class schedule, which made balancing work and school much easier. They were flexible with hours and really took the time to accommodate my academic commitments. Looking back, I realize how fortunate I was to have that kind of support. It allowed me to gain valuable work experience without feeling overwhelmed by my coursework. I truly got lucky in finding a place that prioritized both my growth and well-being.”
Looking to the future, Alyssa hopes to keep growing within the firm.
“In five years, I see myself still working at DZA, hopefully as a senior. I love teaching, and I think DZA will help me develop those skills so I can support the next round of interns and staff.”
Final Thoughts
Alyssa offers a final piece of encouragement for students still figuring out where they belong in the accounting world.
“Accounting doesn’t always come across the same way in the classroom. I didn’t fully understand what it was all about until I got into an internship. In school, you dive into the theory, but it’s not until you’re in the field that you see how it all comes together. So, hang in there—because that theory is the groundwork for real-world work that’s extremely enjoyable.
Ready to Write Your Own DZA Story?
Alyssa’s journey is one example of how an internship at DZA can turn into a lasting, fulfilling career. Whether you’re just beginning to explore accounting or ready to jump into real-world experience, we’re here to support your growth.
Interested in joining our next intern class? Reach out to lhunter@dza.cpa to learn more about what makes DZA such a unique place to start your career.
Read another DZA internship story here: From Intern to Insight: James Harrison Reflects on his DZA Experience
