Trainee Associate in Audit Review

I am currently a trainee associate working in the audit department on the school leaver program. My daily tasks vary depending on what client I am working on and where the client is situated. I work with different teams on each client, getting to know different people every few weeks. I work with tasks such as: cash, trade payables and trade receivables.

I have learnt many new skills while on the school leaver program; from learning how to use excel in greater detail to the professional audit programs of EY. I have not yet sat any exams, however, have development my knowledge of accounting from A-Level. I have done internal training courses, including web based learning and classroom based to keep up to date with new systems.

I enjoy the program as you get to work in different teams; each team giving me support when needed to help you understand the work I am performing. The work can be a bit demanding at times, however, I am able to keep mostly on top of it to meet deadlines given. The company culture is very diverse, meeting new people every few weeks.

For most of it, I feel valued by EY. Receiving appreciation from managers when you have exceeded expectations. The more involved I get the more recognition you receive; for example taking part in other activities such as recruitment.

The induction was OK. It was not always centered around every person/location as we went to London and they had a large graduate intake. However, the training is very good and organised. It could be done slightly early as we haven't sat any exams, we went into work straight away and then had training which was probably the wrong way round. College is well organised and the support from buddies and counsellors is great.

College offers plenty of support. The tutor gave us her email so when we were revising on the night, she was available which I found very helpful. She gave us a lot of advice and guidance within our studies, and I really enjoyed going to college.

Per team you receive support from those above you to help you understand the tasks you are performing. We received a counsellor who is there for us to go to with any problems. They aren't always within the office however, if you have a problem they will make five minutes for you to help you. For most part, there is always help and support available.

My salary meets my costs ok. I pay board and also then get the train to work each morning and have to drive to the station. I don't have many things to pay for, however, when you have a car it costs a lot to run. I'd say it matches my costs alright, and I am able to save a little each month.

The company has quite a few events doted around the year. There are also voluntary aspects such as helping out in recruitment for the next year. We also have family socials where everyone is invited to if free just to see others who you don't work with all the time. I do other activities outside of work however, don't always have the time as work takes up a good proportion of the week.

Yes

It's a good company to work for working on the strengths of the individuals rather than putting them down for their weaknesses. You learn many new skills that I feel going to university you would not find. EY also offer opportunities as you progress.

- Be a team player. - Don't be afraid to be honest. - Be confident, ask questions back to your interviewer. Ask about their experiences of the business. - Always try and have some work experience. It will help you be more confident of your skills, find out what work is right for you.