Audit Associate Review

I have thoroughly enjoyed my work placement as I have really enjoyed the work element as well as the social element. The actual job is interesting and is a lot more interactive with clients than I initially thought. In addition to this, the culture in the company is really nice to work for as everyone is friendly and values each other as a team member.

I was given a lot of responsibility early on so I have felt very valued by my colleagues. I have also been invited out to social events outside of work hours which has enabled me to get to know my colleagues better, and to help fit in to the team a lot better.

I have been assigned a 'buddy' who helps me with day to day issues, such as how to do things on the online system, or where to find things, however, all of management have been very helpful when I have needed it. For example, when being given work that I have not done before, there will always be a member of management, or an 'in-charge' who can help me to understand what I need to do.

At the beginning of the placement, I was not very busy as I was getting used to the office, and having various office and corporate inductions, however as time has gone on and I have more knowledge, understanding and experience, I have been given more work which has led me to have the perfect balance.

I have been given a lot of responsibility during my placement, right from the beginning. I was not expecting to be able to do as much as I have done, in such a short space of time. For example, I have completed sections of an audit by myself, with minimal interaction from management or a more senior member of staff.

The skills I have developed as well as the knowledge gained are relevant to the final year of my University degree. Looking more into the future, I hope to go on and pursue this placement as a career, and the knowledge and experience is obviously all extremely valuable in that sense as I need to build up my knowledge.

The general atmosphere is always very welcoming and friendly. Although some days it can be a lot more quiet, and other days a lot louder due to the nature of the department I work in, we are often away at clients rather than in the Grant Thornton office. It is a nice atmosphere to work in.

The work placement was very well organised as there is a recruitment team who deal with recruitment nationwide and they ensured that even during the application process and once the offer received, you felt like you were a part of the company already. Once starting, this entuisism has been extended even further.

I have been to a workshop in London to meet other placement student from around the UK with Grant Thornton. I am also going to be going to Bradenham, our resident training manor house, where I will complete three courses in January, which will enable me to complete an audit more in line with Grant Thornton's software and procedures.

Future employment prospects are very appealing. I really hope I can get the opportunity to gain a place on the Graduate scheme by the end of the year. I have worked closely alongisde the current first year graduates and it is motivating me to gain a position like theirs.