Audit Associate Review

Day to day life at EY includes numerous tasks, responsibilities and opportunities. When I started I was sceptical about the stereotypical office job (not knowing what audit was) but most of the time is spent out on clients sites, which is great as you get to network with lots of new people. My role is essentially an audit associate so I help test accounts such as cash, debtors, creditors, inventories, accrual, fixed assets and more- you are always exposed to new opportunities.

I have definitely learnt lots of new skills. Coming straight out of sixth form I have definitely improved speaking to new people, especially older people when liaising with the client. I have also become very punctuate and take pride in my actions. Coming straight out of being 'spoon fed' at sixth form I have become a lot more proactive with my problem solving.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme, I am definitely glad I chose to take this career path instead of university. What I enjoy most about this programme is the exposure to new opportunities as well as working in a group of young like-minded people at different sites. I would definitely recommend this.

The programme for a school leaver is different to that of a graduate- a graduate takes a set of four exams within the first 7 weeks, whereas I am six months in and yet to take my first exam. I think this is beneficial for my age as I am not sure how I could cope with the stress of a lot of important exams at once.

You receive a lot of support. When you join you receive a 'buddy' who is someone who was in the same position as you the year before, you also receive a councillor who is more senior, at a manager level who you can go for guidance about anything. Also, everyone is more than happy to help with problems and tasks.

I am yet to take any exams yet so I cannot really comment on this aspect- I have however been to college for a week. This experience was a lot different to what I expected. You have to be on it from the start, it's only 9-4:30 but it's a lot more exhausting than normal work!

I haven't had to much guidance from my training provider as of yet as I haven't sat exams. But from what I hear from the graduates you learn a lot more about audit on the job working than you do studying in college. Obviously a greater understanding of accounting enhances your daily understanding of what you are doing.

Yes. I am only in my first year as a school leaver but I have organised football events for my office. If there is a sport or a club which you want to start and no one else is doing it, start it yourself. There is also networking events to local schools and hosting work experience and EY Smart Futures.

Yes

I would recommend this to a friend due to my personal experience. I have been exposed to lots of new opportunities and I feel that I have grown and matured a lot more as a person than if I went to University. Also the people you work with are very like-minded and easy to get along with.

Be yourself. Don't be afraid to ask stupid questions, there isn't such a thing. It is better to ask a stupid question and understand it after 5 minutes than sit in silence and get nothing done in an hour. Also, make sure to practice speaking to new people if this is something that you struggle with- perhaps ask to lead an assembly at your school if this is something that you need to improve?