Intern Review

As an assurance intern, I was assigned to teams to audit client's financial statements- which involved performing testing over certain balances. This involved a lot of work on a computer and speaking to the client, to obtain documents that we needed to perform testing over and to ask them questions.

I have developed confidence in speaking to clients, especially about topics that I may not know a lot about. I had to learn very quickly at times, which meant that I learn very quickly about numerous topics. I have also become very organised and learned how to prioritise work, in order to meet deadlines.

I enjoy my programme, as it's one of the fastest ways to become a chartered accountant, whilst also still being able to experience university. As the course is very small, it has a close knit feel about it and everyone knows each other, and is going through the same thing so you never feel alone.

Very well organised as we are told from the very start what is expected of us, and what modules entail, and what ones provide relevant exemptions. There is a lot of communication between us and the university, even when we are away at placement, to keep us up to date on what we need to do.

When on placement, we get a lot of support, as our accomodation is provided for us which is to a very high standard, and in a central location. Our travel is expensed to the client site. Activities and drinks are also organised in the office in order to get us involved.

A lot as our textbooks are provided for us, and we receive question banks which are good practice for the exams. We also receive emails from ICAEW updating us on changes in the financial world, and update us on the resources that are provided, and update us if there is any changes to this.

A lot, as I use the knowledge from my training on an almost daily basis, as it enables me to have a deeper understanding of my work, enabling me to better perform my work, such as using journal entries to better understand accounting treatments. I can also chat about this with colleagues.

Yes there is a social committee which organise a lot of office activities such as office drinks or bowling. We get emails updating on these, saying if there are any coming up and if we want to get involved. We are encouraged to come along as a good way to meet people in the office.

Yes

Its one of the top employers in the world with a good reputation, which will open many doors for you in the finance world. The atmosphere is good in the office, and I have learned a lot during my time here, including many skills that I can carry forward onto future placements.

Try to be yourself when applying, but also think about what you can bring to the firm. The firm values hard workers who can work in a team, and also work hard under pressure. It can be tough at times but is also incredibly rewarding when the work you have done is recognised.