Flying Start Associate Review

On a day to day basis I worked with different clients to audit their financial accounts. I had team meetings daily and worked with a variety of people in a range of industries. I audited lots of different areas of the financial statements and got daily coaching from my team members to teach me what to do.

Most of the skills I learnt during the course of the placement are new in relation to the actual audit and PwC software. I also developed communication, teamwork and perseverance skills throughout. My excel skills progressed a lot and my ability to complete different areas of an audit was a new skill that I have developed from the placement.

I think the programme is great to get exposure to audit work and to network within PwC and put into practice what we learn at university. Its a great opportunity to work at a brilliant firm and think that the way the programme is structure, with 3 shorter placements within 3 years is great.

The programme is well structured. You get the balance of university life as well as working life in a top firm. You get to put what you've leant into practice which goes both ways and its good to be able to see where the work is used in the real world.

Theres lots of support from PwC - there are career coaches, buddys and flying start mentors who are there to support and answer any questions you may have. Not only that but members of your audit team are happy to help - all round everyone is really friendly. At university there are also contacts such as the programme director and the ICAEW who can support you.

The ICAEW are happy to help if you ever come to need it. The university are also very good - they check up on your well being and make sure that everything is running smoothly. They are always there is you need support whilst on placement but also when you are back at university.

The exams we do are helpful to put things into context and to give a greater understanding of the work that you perform whilst on placement. Whilst only having done a few exams at this stage they are still good to be able to provide knowledge on the work performed during placement.

The placement this year was online so there were limited social activities but there were organised team games weekly which were virtual. There was also weekly quizzes so whilst it was not as social and not as many events as it would have been if the placement were in person, I feel there was an effort made to do extra non work events.

Yes

PwC is a great place to work and i would highly recommend. There is a great inclusive environment and such a range of people working there. There are also so many opportunities to get stuck into and there is a great support network throughout the firm. The firm really does push you to do the best you can

I would advice that you ensure you know why you want to work for PwC and do your research into the firm so that you can be as strong in your answers. Do some practice interview questions and just be yourself and be confident. Think about how different experiences you have had demonstrate different skills.