Audit Associate Review

We are required to complete the audit of multiple clients through various engagements and complete designated auditing and excel based tasks based on our knowledge and experience that help the team form an audit opinion on the issued financial statements by the client. This can be done in-person or online.

I have developed my auditing skills and raw knowledge on audit practices and assertions. I have also improved my ability to communicate effectively with clients so that they complete the tasks I ask of them. I have also improved my digital analytical skills through us of excel and its functions.

I enjoyed my experience far more in the earlier stages when there was less pressure to complete tasks to tight timeframes, especially when the tasks increase in difficulty throughout my time on placements. The learning curve on this placement is very steep so that have impacted the enjoyability of it.

The programme is very well structured with clear progression and development steps. However, this progress is not well publicised so while it is clear to managers, we as a cohort can not see as clear what our progression will be and how we can achieve this - more collaboration is needed.

Support in terms of providing learning materials and placement opportunities is good and appreciated, however beyond this there is not too much academic support whilst on placement as many staff are not briefed on the fact that placement students have exams so do not set their expectations accordingly - more needs to be done about this.

Support in terms of providing learning materials and tutoring is good and appreciated, however beyond the structured academic tutoring hours there is not too much academic support. There could be more focus on informal tutoring such as more regular conversations with tutors to put our minds at ease around certain topics.

Personally I feel that the qualification and teh job are becoming misaligned as the transferable skills do not quite transfer when working for a Big 4 firm - however this is not the fault of my providers as they have to ensure we are trained to the external guidance but it can be frustrating at times.

The social aspect of this placement have been good and are always a highlight as in this line of work you meet a variety of interesting people that are good to talk to. You also have the opportunity to meet people who are in positions you one day aspire to be in yourself so can get some tips!

Yes

I would recommend as it is a very good vessel to achieve your qualifications in a timely manner and meet a plethora of good professional contracts. You are also more exposed to bigger businesses so can understand their processes more. However this is only as useful as an individual wants it to be.

Definitely to do your research before you apply as there are some hidden aspects that are not too well publicised such as the steep learning curve and heavy weighting of exams nearer the end of placements. So ensure you know this is the career for you before embarking on it!