Undergraduate Business Placement Student Review

I am a placement student in Audit. My day depends on what client I'm booked on. I perform simple Audit testing of the client's financial statements, document findings, and correspond with team members and the client to obtain the evidence we need for testing. As a junior member of the team, my job involves keeping the senior updated on the areas I am assigned to, and asking for coaching in areas I am unsure about as well as implementing independent learning in the process

Yes, my skills in Microsoft Excel have improved significantly. I have also learned effective communication with team members, and how to speak to clients on virtual calls and in person. I have learned how to speak to co-workers in the office, in a formal and informal setting. I have also learned time management skills and I am on track to mastering the Auditing software that PwC uses

I enjoy my programme very much. I have learned a lot and made good connections along the way. I was also able to do my 6 TC papers for ICAS during my time here, which is very useful in coming back to the firm should I be made an offer upon graduation. The office culture is mostly nurturing and welcoming, it's easy to speak to or learn from anyone there. I did not expect it to be as welcoming as it was, but that is just my experience in the Glasgow office. We are given a buddy and Career Coach, both of which were key in helping me assimilate into the firm during my first few weeks and beyond.

The programme is very well structured. We started the placement program with a week-long induction where we learned about assimilating into the firm. Each person is also given a Career Coach and buddy to help with our journey in the firm. After induction week, we had ICAS studies and exams. During ICAS, we are given time off to study and complete the exams. During client work, we are given real responsibility to complete tasks, and there is plenty of support through coaching from more senior members of the team. The task delegation is fair and encourages you to take ownership of your own work.

There is quite a bit of support at the firm. As previously mentioned, each associate is given a Career Coach and buddy. My Career Coach was always very supportive in helping me set goals for my placement, and address any issues that cropped up or answer any questions I had during placement. My buddy was someone who was in the year above me, and she was very helpful in answering more informal questions such as how to adapt to the working environment, and provided helpful tips for studying and client work. During client work, teams are structured to provide good training and support to junior associates. There is a clear coaching structure to help junior members of the team seek help if we have questions. Overall, I felt very supported at the firm and did not feel alone whenever I needed help.

We receive a good amount of support when studying for ICAS. ICAS tutors are very helpful and knowledgeable. For the most part, the classes worked well online and it wasn't too difficult asking for help when I needed it. There are plenty of workshop questions to help understanding and to practice.

I feel like ICAS does help in Audit with PwC, as the modules provide basic understanding of Audit and Accounting. I did not really know what Auditing entailed until studying the Assurance and Reporting TC course, and sometimes referred to the material whenever I was unsure about certain assertions that were being tested during client work. However, I think that as I progress on to TPS (second level of ICAS), the material will become even more relevant to the work I am doing at the firm, as TC (first level of ICAS) is only a foundation level understanding of the material.

Yes, there are plenty of activities to get involved in at PwC. For example, in the department I was in, there are groups dedicated to Wellbeing, Recognition, Retention, Inclusion & Diversity, and Technology. I was actively involved in the Inclusion & Diversity group and helped to organise several events and initiatives to champion diversity and inclusion in the Edinburgh and Glasgow offices. There are also many socials both in and out of the office, especially during your first week at the firm. This helps everyone to get to know each other.

Yes

Overall, the culture at the firm is a mostly positive one, at least in the Scottish offices. I enjoyed working with everyone during my year here, and always felt supported and appreciated at the firm. I enjoyed going to work because of the people, which is a big part of what makes the firm special.

My biggest tip would be to not overthink the application process and apply early. Definitely do your research about technology at PwC, as it is certainly a key element of what they are trying to achieve at the firm. Do not worry about what you do not know. If you show that you are willing to learn and have a positive and approachable attitude, you are the right fit for the firm.