Business Placement Student Review

My role varied depending on the project I was on at the time. Typically I would attend a morning meeting in which I would be delegated a number of tasks, that I would have to complete before the end of the day. I would then complete these tasks using a wide range of programs such as Google Sheets and Google Slides.

Throughout my time with PwC I have been able to develop a wide range of technical skills such as data modeling, operating model design and Alteryx. However, my placement has also enabled me to develop my personal skills such as increasing my confidence, improving my networking and being able to implement feedback into my skillset.

My placement year with PwC was thoroughly enjoyable. I was able to work on a wide range of complex projects and tasks which satisfied my desire to be challenged during my placement. I was also pleasantly surprised at the level of responsibility given to me even when I had just started.

I believe my placement programme was extremely well structured. From the beginning you are encouraged to introduce yourself to colleagues through organising a series of meetings, this allows you to build a small network from when you enter the firm. Throughout the year you are also invited to placement events which enable you to meet your placement cohort.

I received extensive support from Pwc which enabled me to focus on my personal and professional development. Within my placement I was assigned a career coach who informed me on any upcoming opportunities within the firm such as training days. The career coach also allowed me to ask any questions which I did not feel comfortable sharing with my project team.

From my university I received monthly check in emails which allowed to to raise any concerns I had during my placement. I also had an accessed placement visit from my module tutor. In this meeting I was able to describe my experience on the placement and talk through the skills I had developed.

I believe that the skills gained from attending university helped me throughout my placement. I was able to implement organisational skills gained from university to keep track of deadlines for specific tasks I had been set. In addition to this I had already developed basic Excel and Powerpoint skills which provided me with a good base level of skills to begin my placement.

Unfortunately due to Covid-19 restrictions I was unable to attend any in person extra-curricular activates during my placement. I have been informed by colleagues that PwC would typically run a wide range of activates that employees can participate in. However, I was still able to get involved in some activates such as when I assisted in the running of a virtual recruitment event.

Yes

I would recommend joining PwC to any friend who was interested in the firm, particularly if this was for a placement year. I fully believe PwC offers the best experience possible to a placement student. This is due to the wide range of project work on offer and the various training opportunities available.

To those seeking to apply to PwC for a placement year I would first recommend conducting some research into the firm to ensure you are applying to your preferred department. When participating in interviews or attending recruitment events I would recommend to show enthusiasm and an eagerness to learn more about the firm as this will be noted by recruiters.