Senior Associate Review

On a day to day basis I might be reperforming revenue calculations, or requesting corroborating evidence from the client to assist in our audit work. Various online learnings and lots of audit work spanning across various accounts, from expenses and revenue to assets and equity accounts. Really broad mix of work.

I've learnt more soft skills like communication and presentation along with client interaction which are very important in the working world. I've also learnt much more about software such as microsoft excel and word and pdf editor. I've learnt to take minutes during meetings and construct good questions.

I do enjoy the programme to a large degree, however, the work hours can be very long, and deadlines can be very demanding. When this is paired with having to revise and study for exams with minimal study leave it does make the whole experience quite intense and not for the faint hearted.

The programme is well structured overall, but there can be some disconnect between various departments and sometimes things seem to get lost in translation between the exam department and working departments, making it hard to have a consistent expectation on what you need to do or what you're studying towards next.

I receive a lot of support which I'm vert grateful for indeed. My work councellor and apprencticeship coach have both been excellent in helping me through the balance of work and my studies, but also in everyday mentoring and stress management etc, which has been super helpful to me.

Kaplan are great when it comes to providing support towards the exams that are part of the qualification. They have a good set of materials and an online learning software that makes it easy to follow courses. The tutors are very good overall and there's an online tutor service if you need to go over an area again.

I think with the areas that I've been revising, currently there is a negligible impact on what I've learnt through the training provider Kaplan, and what I directly apply to work. I believe this will change as I progress onto some of the more advanced exams, so this might change.

I don't get involved in anything at this moment, but am keen to look into the EY Hockey team trainings at some point, as long as I have the time and it's not too far of a commute. I know there are a very wide range of groups and social activities available.

Yes

Overall, I think they are a great employer to work for, and all of the people that I've worked with have been super supportive and helpful in tailoring my experience to best suit me. They have a very diverse workforce, so no one feels out of place and there are plenty of ways for people to cross paths outside of work.

Apply early as the application process can take quite some time. Prepare well for any assignments you're given. Make sure that you develop your interpersonal skills as well as these are just as important, if not more important than raw intellect. But most of all enjoy the experience through any of the in person learning academies and trainings!