Audit Associate Review

So far I am studying for the ACA qualification and this involves days in college at a Kaplan centre which prepare me for the upcoming exams. Once I have completed 12 of the exams I will then start practical audit work. Currently, my day exists of studying for my exams but in the future I will be heading into the office a lot more to do audit work.

I have developed my ability to work well under pressure and manage my time effectively. This is because I have to juggle study for various exams and various training may take place in between this, alongside any meetings with coaches. I have also had the ability to network with other graduates on the same course as me which has helped build my confidence for when I eventually do head into the office.

I enjoy the ability to work with link minded individuals, my cohort get on really well and this means everyone everyone is there to support one another. This is useful as the ACA exams are very demanding and there will be days where you do not feel your best, but the people around you will be there to pick you back up.

I would say the programme is very well structured, before starting my course there were induction events which explain the whole programme and how we would progress throughout the 3 year programme. Also, PWC and Kaplan have worked together to provide the best resources and tutoring to ensure we are well prepared for our exams.

Support is always available, whilst on the programme everyone is assigned a coach at PWC and a coach at Kapla. The coach at PWC is always there for anything help required in regards to your career or even general issues such as holiday. The Kaplan coach ensures you are on the right track and ready for the ICAEW plan.

The training provider provides a lot of support, they have an online chat system where if we have any questions regarding the module we can speak to a tutor instantly. Also, I have regular meetings with my Kaplan coach who is able to guide me through anything I need or are required to do.

I have not started any audit work just yet but I can say I am more confident for when I do start practical work due to the qualification. I am more aware of audit through the modules and I now can understand, interpret and prepare financial statements which will be useful.

At PWC there are various social networks that anyone can join, there is even the opportunity to start your own network. Also, there is various opportunities to volunteer, in fact PWC encourage this by having all staff dedicate at least two days to volunteering in the year, which can be used on any activity.

Yes

I would recommend PWC as throughout the whole process from when I first submitted my application to where I am now, I feel I have been supported. This has made me feel that PWC care about me as an individual and they understand the importance of each of their staff.

I would say to be yourself, that is one thing I value about PWC. I met so any unique individuals at PWC and that is testament to the great work PWC do to ensure they have a diverse workforce. Also, being yourself ensures you look forward to coming to work as you will generally feel much more confident.