Assurance Intern - External Audit Review

My internship was based in the London Embankment Office within the London Regional Client base of External Audit. I really enjoyed the internship as I had the opportunity to work on a range of clients in many industries including tech, automotive and commercial industries. Along with this all members of the PwC were welcoming and made for a great experience.

Whilst working in my teams I was given exposure to high level work and testing. This made me feel valued by my team whether they be associates, managers or directors. After each job I was given feedback from the manager on how I did during the job. This provided me with the things I did well and the things I can improve on.

When joining the firm each intern is allocated a buddy, who is a usually a first or second year on the grad scheme. This allows you to ask any questions where no question is a silly question. Additionally, each intern is allocated a Career Coach, who is a manager that supports and guides you throughout you're PwC career. They are open and available to answer any questions you have.

The amount of work you are given as an intern changes daily. Occasionally you are extremely busy if working to a tight deadline. Whereas sometimes there can be times that are more relaxed in the office. I think this matches what is expected in working life, but believe was constantly thinking and working throughout the internship.

From the first day on the internship I was thrown into a project. This meant most of my learning was on the job instead of classroom learning. This was extremely beneficial as the more responsibility and trust the managers gave you, the more you worked hard and are determined to learn and develop.

I learnt many skills based I will use in my university degree and further career plans. Many technical skills can be transfer into ones degree and other career roles. Additionally, this was a good opportunity to learn key working skills and learning how to build good client and working relationships. The skills I have learnt will stick with me throughout my career.

The office atmosphere at PwC is very open and productive atmosphere. They have recently re-developed their Embankment office so all floors contain open working spaces, which fosters a good working environment. This meant I had daily interactions with other interns, associates and often directors and even partners. This meant all levels felt part of the wider PwC team.

Prior to starting in your office, PwC hosted a three day event, with all interns from throughout the UK. This was a well organised event that allowed key information and lessons that were required before starting the job. Once in the office each intern was allocated to multiple clients throughout the internship, making easy to see your plan for the 6 weeks.

The first three days of the internship were based around learning the technical aspects of the role that would be used in everyday life as an audit intern. Once in the office, PwC recommended setting up meetings regularly with your career coach to ensure all was well. They invested in both you technical and mental well being throughout the internship

At PwC there is a clear path for development and growth. Once qualified it is clear the process to move to manager and senior management with hard work and determination. Furthermore, I am aware that there are internal transfer periods that occur giving employees the opportunity to internally change their service lines to experience new positions and roles they are interested in.

There was a good social scene within both the interns and the associates. I attended multiple welcome drink events and intern drink events. Along with this I was invited to birthday drinks with members of my team. This fostered a great atmosphere, being able to socialise with colleagues outside of the work environment

Throughout the internship I lived in London, which as well known is an expensive place to work. I rented a room from a friend for the 6 weeks. My salary from the internship was able to pay for my rent throughout and any socialising taking place over the 6 weeks.

There is a very good bar scene in and around my work area. I was based in Embankment which is very close to Covent Garden and has quick and easy links to areas such as Soho and connections to the London Bridge. The nightlife was very good fun, but a but pricey at times!

As it was the summer time, many employees were on annual leave or holiday. This meant there were limited opportunities to get involved in activities such as sports or social activities. This is possibly something that could be improved upon, however I have been told that once joining the firm there are many opportunities for charitable, sporting or social events/teams.