Associate Review

The degree apprentice consists of attending university full-time, during which we have many interactions about PwC- this consists of many virtual sessions where we are given presentations about the different aspects that could be related to our job. Once University finishes we then go on a 10-week placement, which we are yet to carry out.

I have acquired many skills and have gained a lot of knowledge from my course. The first year of this programme has provided us with the basic knowledge of practical aspects such as programming which is then challenged during the second term. We have also learnt about some finance topics which is key to understand the operation of the business. The professional skills I will learn during the placement.

I have enjoyed the programme very much, there is a big emphasis on being able to work in a team both during University and the company. I have been able to learn about a lot of new concepts as well as work with a range of different people- an experience which has gone well.

The structure of this programme is very good. During the two university terms you are not expected to carry out any work with PwC- rather are just expected to focus on university and studying. However, we still receive support from PwC, and have a meeting with both our tutor at university and a representative from PwC- the programme lead, once a term.

There is a lot of support from out employer, as well as being able to contact employees overlooking the programme, we also have a buddy. A buddy means that any question about working at PwC- what we can expect, the structure of their day, can be asked to your buddy. Their attitude towards our questions are always helpful and kind, and guide us with any queries we have.

I have received a lot of support from University, we have weekly meeting with out personal tutors who are willing to help with any queries with have. During these meeting any problems or concerns we have are raised and they provide support and guidance where needed. If we have any queries in between or any queries for any particular lecturer we are able to email them and they respond fast. Or we could even attend their office hours.

As I am yet to complete my summer placement, I have not been able to put my skills into practice. However, from the various talks and sessions we have had from PwC there is a similarity between the work being carried out and what we are learning from out University degree.

There have been many events that we have been invited to, these include talks given by people from different professions. These talks do not necessarily relate to our degree- some do, but they also relate to the working life. There is also various other opportunities that we can get involved with such as charity projects.

Yes

PwC is a great company to work for, it provides you with a lot of support and the opportunity to work at a leading company and you are able to be a part of the work carrying out that makes it leading. The support system is good as it makes sure if you have any queries they will be answered.

One advice I would give is to keep up to date with the current business and technology affairs in the world, especially the UK. Also, research about the company- what kind of work do they carry out. What are their policies? What are the different values they have and make sure they match with your own.