Flying Start Degree programme - Placement/ Grade 1 More London office Review

I'm an intern working in audit, which involves testing the financials of my client(s). My clients are all involved in venture capital (I am within the Asset and Wealth Management subsector).

I've developed my skills built upon from theory (taught in uni classes) as well as from training. The time I've spent on the job with hands on experience is the time I've learnt the most about audit and specifically asset and wealth management.

At times, it can be very rewarding. You don't have to have a passion for accounting, but you do need commitment. However, I would say I am an outlier in some regards as others have had larger work loads during placement that meant they have had to work extremely long hours for an intern.

The programme itself is very well structured as it is has been well established for a while at the uni of Reading. However I am not sure if the same can be said about those at the newer added unis (e.g. Queen Mary). The training at times left much to be desired though that is not necessarily reflective of the programme itself.

I have received a lot of support from my connected development (mentor on placement) and others on my team who have taken the time to coach me through different tasks. It is this source of support from my team(s) that I have learnt the most.

We have quite a bit of support from professors in our studies, who are always open to feedback. We also have access to work/question books paid for by PwC. As always, there are some professors who are better than others.

Uni studies toward the chartered accountant qualification has helped serve as a solid foundation, though in terms of role performance in my first placement most of what I've learnt and used has been on the job. This may be because I happen to be working in a more specialised sector though.

There are social groups available to get involved with, though I haven't had much exposure due to my relatively short placement (a little less than 3m)

Yes

It's a great place to learn due to online learning resources available. In terms of work/life balance, it depends on the client you get. In terms of my cohort, there has been a wide range of hours worked from the minimum 9-17:30 to consistently clocking out late and eating dinner at your desk.

Review any materials provided for your application, practice a few free online practice materials, and if you have an online group interview try to include others and ask for their opinion. Best of luck!