Associate Review

I work as an associate and part of engagement teams. Most of my days are spent working on audits at client site by collaborating with the client for support and with the team to get tasks completed. On every client, I have areas of work that are assigned to me and I'm responsible to ensure that these are completed in time for deadlines and for the audit to be completed.

I have gained technical skills in understanding accounting and finance as well as managed to improve my business acumen regarding the commercial world. I have become more confident, clear and concise in my communications by interacting with a wide range of people including the clients and members of my teams.

I believe that this programme is a great way to put into practice what you learn at University and then plough that practical knowledge and awareness obtained from placement into gaining a deeper understanding of the theoretical knowledge. I enjoy that we get to obtain a high level of responsibility at a very early stage in life.

The programme is structured well, giving equal importance to University life as well as placement, while still managing to get time off for breaks. It's a result of a well thought-out collaboration between PwC, University of Nottingham and ICAEW- that enables us to complete ACA the fastest way possible.

PwC has provided me with innumerable channels to ensure that I'm getting all the support required- from having flying start champions and tutors to a career coach and buddy. I also have access to private helplines, should I encounter any issue- may it be related to audit, firm or personal.

There is ample support provided by the University of Nottingham to ensure that I'm on the right track- from professors and personal tutor to the course director, all are available readily for solving any queries that a student may have. In addition, there is a dedicated team providing Student Support on all the areas that could potentially be an issue.

I feel that the qualification is structured in a way that the modules necessary to train for placement are provided in first year and then right before the second year. This enables all students to have all the knowledge necessary to perform well in their role. The exams are also structured in a way that all ICAEW exemptions can be attained in a structured manner.

PwC conducts regular socials within social groups that are formed based on the area of the clients that every employee works on: from simple lunches and meetings to grand christmas dinners are planned for employees to get involved in. In addition, there are various networking events that we could be part of as flying starts.

Yes

PwC maintains a high level of work environment with people available to help you at all points. They have strong training programmes to make sure you are prepared for the role and activities expected to be delivered from you. in addition, they offer good perks to employees even at a junior level.

The application process for the flying start degree is well structured- with stages to get past. Especially since I was an international student, I believe it became very important for me to make sure that my qualities were showcased by just phone calls. The most important trait here becomes communicating with the interviewers and making sure that you get your message across well.