Apprentice Review

I was placed in the Data team. From the beginning, I was assigned to a below manager with another apprentice. We were given different work to do, more or less challenging but all useful to the team and the firm. We were also able to communicate with the audit team who works closely with the data team.

I had the opportunity to learn Python and HTML through the online training that the firm provides. I trained on SQL, java and excel. I developed my soft skills such as whole leadership, team work, business acumen. I discovered the "office life" and how to interact with colleagues in a friendly but professional way.

During the academic year we had a variety of different courses to follow through. I particularly liked the fact that I had electives to choose to study more the things I liked, even though it is not directly related to my degree. Great help from the personal tutor who we can see very often during term time.

This was the first year of the data science apprenticeship programme in edinburgh/st andrews. Therefore sometimes we have got information later than we would have liked. But we did understand that we were the 1st batch and thus not everything was planned a lot in advance. We do have however a lot of contacts in both PwC and the university.

Throughout the year PwC always makes sure that we feel supported and part of the firm. We have meetings in the office during term time and personal chats with our tutor from university and someone from PwC. They always make sure that everything is alright and that we feel like we can come to them whenever we think that something is not right.

We have a personal tutor from the university. She keeps track of how we are doing through emails and regular meetups. If ever we need help she makes sure to make some time in her schedule to meet privately and talk about our concerns. We don't have other close points of contact with the university.

I only went through my first placement this summer. The things that I learnt throughout the year were barely useful to very few of my tasks during work. I mainly trained myself during the work placement itself. However I do understand that I am still a 1st year undergraduate, therefore I do not have many technical skills that I can use for work.

I did get invited to some social events inside of my team during the work placement. We also got invited to other bigger events for the whole Edinburgh office such as end of month drinks. However I would have appreciated if we could have had more invitations to socials from our team.

Yes

PwC is a very global company which is great if someone wants an international career. It also offers a wide range of opportunities and training while working. There is also a very nice and friendly atmosphere. PwC always makes sure we feel welcomed in the office and make the most out of our time.

You need to research what PwC is and what their business is all about. PwC employees are always very friendly and willing to help so do not hesitate to ask questions. Make the most out of your time here, PwC gives plenty of opportunities to develop your skills so make use of it.