Flying start degree programme Review

I was involved in multiple audit engagements relating to financial services focused clients. I had the opportunity towork with clients of retail and commercial banking, as well as having an exposure to fintech companies. I was part of the audit team responsible for the preparation of financial statements for investors.

Undoubtedly I have learned how to assess the reliability of financial statements. Particularly understanding how the final balances on the financial statements are made up of and tracing back to supporting evidence to back those figures. My soft skills have also been enhanced, dealing directly with senior client contacts daily

The programme gave me the opportunity to get my foot on the world of work while I was still at university, there is a nice balance between the student life and the employee lifestyle. Flying start students are a big family, as we oftenly work together in some clients also

The programme is well structured and articulated. There is already a well established flying start alumni community in all the offices and regions. My team members were aware of the duration of the programme, possible weaknessess or lack of experience. As a result I was given areas to promote my growth

As previously said the support network is huge and communicated effectively between themselves. apart from the supportive organisations which are provided to all employees within PwC, Flying starts also have an one to one support from a delegated buddy. Additionally each office has a flying start champion which is responsible for supporting all the flying start coachees of the office. Finally there is also dedicated HR Manager responsible for the Flying start of each university.

ACA modules are taught within the university of Reading. The lecturers are pretty experienced professionals in the field. Most of them being ex big four managers/senior managers or actual ICAEW external professors. the teaching received in university is at the same level as traditional ACA teaching institutions of graduate schemes

Being taught by people who were already in the profession, carrying years of experience in their back its of major importance. The teaching is more realistic and more up to the point. Whatever you learn in class you will definitely come across it in your professional career. There is no unnecessary information being taught

there are multiple activities organised by PwC, either firm-wide or within the teams. Firstly the most amazing of all was the PwC Games. Even if I was at university at that time, my engagement manager contacted me to attend the event. additionally there are many team socials as well. i.e climbing the O2 arena

Yes

PwC is the leading big four firm, especially when it comes to financial services. This is not my personal opinion but a fact, after looking on the client portofolio. There is a widely recognised prestige on the level of services provided by PwC to financial institutions. Thus its a great opportunity to learn from the best in the field.

be yourself at all times. From the interview until your very last day. Respect and support diversity and inclusion, as this is what makes up the firm. The hours might be long at some times but do not let this put you off. Before applying make sure that you read PwC values, and be confident if they fit to your personality.