Assitant Senior Review

Assistant Senior - managing audit teams on smaller engagements, taking on more complex work on larger teams. Coaching junior members of staff. Invoicing and setting up chargeable codes. Managing the recruitment in the Aberdeen office for school leavers.

I am sitting my Institute of Chartered Accountants exams which has given me a vast amount of technical knowledge up to now. I have also attended internal training. I have also developed soft skills as well as the ability to audit!

I feel that my time up until now has been productive and I have learnt a lot. I'm not sure that audit is my chosen "path" in life, but the skills I have learnt will enable me to progress into a career which I feel better suited to.

I think that there are mixed expectations in regards to what school leavers are capable of doing and what they should be doing which makes recognition infrequent. If you have done a good job some managers will tell you, which is nice!

When I first joined the programme was in its first year and there was a distinct lack of structure in regards to exams and internal training, however as the programme has gone along the plan is now much more structured and will be better for those following in behind.

ICAS are very good. The tutors are always willing to assist out of hours should it be required with exam questions. The administrator is also very efficient with queries. They could have provided the pre course work timetable quicker but I understand a lot of work goes into producing it.

My counsellor is happy to meet with me out of hours should I need his support, this was very useful during my exams as I was in complete panic mode! The majority of the teams I work on are also supportive of my studies etc.

The cost of living in Aberdeen is quite high. I live with my partner so manage to meet my cost, but I think there are others on the programme still living at home, who would like to move out but can't currently afford to.

There are many social clubs and events that various committees organise, which you can have as little or as much involvement in as you like. There are meals, Christmas party, summer event etc.

Yes

If you are serious about a career in the audit then EY is a good place to learn your stuff. There are lots of opportunities and teams of good people wanting to help you progress and develop.

Ensure you have practiced psychometric tests on Google first. Think about how you would want to come across in an interview. You only have one chance to make a first impression.