Flying Start Degree programme- Placement 2 Embankment Review

My role involves assisting the team I am working on with getting information from the client, selecting samples to test, and documenting meetings and audit worked performed. On my second placement I have progressed a lot and now decide what we need to test and how for some key audit areas.

I develop my Microsoft Excel skills significantly every time I come on placement; every year I learn shortcuts and ways to make every task quick and easy. I have also developed my people skills after spending a lot of time on client calls and sometimes leading them. I have also strengthened my working relationships

I thoroughly enjoy my programme and would recommend it to anyone. I never realised how far ahead going down the 'fast track' route would put me until I started working with people often 3+ years older than me who are in the same position on the route to being qualified.

In my opinion, the programme is very well structured. It does have some high pressure elements as, at Reading uni, we leave placement on the last day of March and have a month to revise for exams in May so it is not for the faint hearted! However, it is well worth it. Lectures and uni life for the first 3 months of the year and then placement for the next 3 is perfect for me.

I receive lots of support from my employer and everyone feels like they are there to help you. I have a buddy at work who is 2 years above me, and a career coach who is a Manager. Any problems I have, I go straight to them and they know how to assist.

We receive lots of support from our training provider and Academic Tutors are available for meetings at any time. On 'blackboard', our university site, there are lots of past papers and other resources we can access at any time for extra practice. Our lecturers are also always reachable- even when we are on placement.

My qualifications I have gained at university are invaluable when performing my role. In audit, it is important to have an awareness of the changing rules and accounting standards to enable you to act professional. Also, having the chance to apply these things and make them more 'real life' is extremely helpful.

As we go in to the office in 'busy season', there are not too many social events running. However, I have already been invited to various other events like the Summer Party and other team gatherings for the rest of the year. At the end of busy season, each team is also treated to an 'audit meal'.

Yes

I would recommend PwC to anyone because you get work experience as well as studying towards being a Chartered Accountant. The Flying Start Degree programme blends university life with work perfectly and I do not feel like I have missed out on anything. Being able to earn money doing a job i enjoy whilst being a student is good too!

I would make sure you have as much on your CV as possible to show you are good at building relationships, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving. Put as many key examples as you can about times you have been resilient, worked in a team etc. And detail any work experience you have had.