Associate Review

An associate role in audit is preparing workpapers over clients. It is testing the likes of bank, equity and other areas which form the financial accounts that are created by clients. It is our job to test these areas via sampling and ensure management have performed their jobs of classifications correctly

I have learnt alot in terms of client engagements, through calls and professional emails but also in terms of audit procedures and working in close teams. I have learnt a lot of audit procedures through our training course as well as general accounting from studying ACA at the university of Reading

The structure of the programme is very intense- time is split between working for PwC and studying. On placement working hours are intense and very stressful. Despite learning alot it can be highly intense and the turn around to university exams is very short. I have learnt a lot and my experience is mostly good but the hours can be troubling

The programme is well organised from the university of reading. They have been in constant contact whether on placement or studying. PwC can be slightly less organised with procedures and have very high expectations for individuals with so little experience. The training for the placements are somewhat overwhelming with information

The people in close proximity to you are really supportive and do anything to help you, however, people unaware of the course and of the experience that you hold do very little to support you unless you actively speak out continuously. the course is not fully aware to all employees and expectations differ which sometimes means you are not fully supported over working hours and expectations

Reading university are fully supportive in the work we perform both on placement and in studying towards our qualifications. They regularly email and are open to feedback and to support at any point. They fully support the work and understand how stressful and tight the work is, hence do everything to make your performance and wellbeing are as well as possible

they directly link to general accounting understanding. Without the training, the work performed would have no meaning, purpose or be completed. Reading do their very best to manage expectations whilst getting ready to be sent on placement. ICAEW exams are required for the role and studying them at university makes sense

Due to covid it has been hard, but PwC thrive in offering additional activities that you can participate in. Notably over placement- yoga classes / online gym sessions and Ted talk discussions were the two I make note of. There are plenty of activities to involve yourself with should you search for it

Yes

Despite the long hours and support, it is a fantastic firm to gain experience in and realise your individuality and independence in a high pressure working environment. They provide an excellent pedestal for audit understanding and testing with well designed testing for anyone looking to study ICAEW and understand accounting

do your research- it is important you know what the expectations are when you sign up. it is very high pressure with small amounts of time for leisure (at least on the course). It is also very rewarding should you put the effort in- but be sure audit / accounting is right for you before applying