Associate Review

Our job title was officially a 'Flying Start 2'. Day to day we would be on audit teams going out to and liaising with clients. We would be testing all areas of the company’s balance sheet and profit and loss account in order to determine whether what the company claimed to have at year end are actually accurate. I would be working with a completely new team and new client every fortnight or so. We were also included in office socials and I felt like I had properly joined the firm

My knowledge of financial runnings within a company have indubitably increased. I am much more familiar with accounts than when I was in a lecture theatre. Also my networking skills have improved and my ability to manage my time. Sometimes I would have to pick up work in evenings or weekends and it was down to me to ensure all the work was completed in time. Working well in a team is an important skill which was honed during my placement. Also my excel skills are now on point.

I enjoy very much meeting and working with new people every few weeks. I also found it really interesting talking to new financial directors and learning how they manage their company. I found the actual audit work often quite tough as we had to do a lot of work in a short amount of time, however everyone on my team was incredibly competent and, as ever with steep learning curves, I came out with invaluable skills.

I feel quite valued by PwC. There is a strong emphasis on looking out for each other (I have a buddy in the year above and am also a buddy to those in the year below me, and also I have a people manager). When I've struggled I always felt that there was support. PwC do expect you to put the hours in, but if it's ever too much there is always help for those who ask for it

Very structured. I know exactly what i'm meant to be doing every day and who I will be working with. PwC tried to give me a mix of clients and teams to ensure that I was able to experience much of the company.

From my university I felt I received minimal support. In fairness I never asked for any, and I believe if i did need it support would be given.

A lot of support. As i've previously mentioned there is a clear system of who you should talk to depending upon what issues you're facing.

I earnt around £1,500 a month at PwC, and my expenses were all covered. I was able to treat myself while working and saved to go travelling during the summer.

I enjoyed being in a new city for my placement (I got to Newcastle University but my placement was based in Nottingham). I joined a local running club.

Yes

There is a clear career path here, and a placement with PwC will never be a bad thing.

During your interview and application process ensure you demonstrate you can work in a team. As long as you can show you're competent, friendly and hard-working they will be impressed.