Assurance Intern Review

I have really enjoyed my team at PwC. I have had the chance to work with many well known clients, provided meaningful work on most engagements whilst being supported by a variety of co-workers. Starting off the internship with a residential programme was excellent, allowing me to gain a basic understanding of the PwC expectations, values and allowed me to meet fellow interns from across the country.

Felt extremely valued by my co-workers as I was providing meaningful work to the engagements I was working on. Working lunches and work drinks also allowed me to build relationships with my co workers - which were free! The PwC culture is very supportive and everyone from partners to fellow interns want to see you succeed and do the best you possibly can.

My career coach helped guide me through my PwC journey by having regular catch up meetings. I was provided with regular and detailed feedback from my engagement leaders. I was given lots of help with my engagements however was challenged to push myself and maximise the learning opportunities from the internship programme.

Normal working hours were from 9-5:30 with an hours lunch break however, even during the internship, flexible working was encouraged as long as I worked for 7.5 hours a day. Some days of the internship were extremely busy with others less so. Working on different clients meant there was a fair bit of travel time which could impact the length of my day.

From the first day in the office, we were given similar work to associates on the graduate programme. Our work was always checked, however we were encouraged to work our way through testing and ask questions when appropriate. I was given a lot more responsibility than expected and was even helping other associates and interns

I have learnt so much about the audit process, from the pre course work, training in london and on the job training. The training has prepared me well for the ICAS examinations which will be completed as part of the Grad scheme. The internship has also helped me for my future classes at university.

Very fun atmosphere in the office. Lots of office drinks, intern social events and very relaxed atmosphere. Office uses a hot desk system so I was able to sit next to my friends or teammates depending on the engagement I was working on. Office also hosts sporting events and other activities throughout the year.

The internship was well organised with lots of events set up to help us integrate into the office. In london there was a lot of structure where as in the office it was a lot more independent work - taking charge of your own time. Tasks with set efficiently and technology was used to ensure organisation

The company invested a lot of time and money during our training sessions, from face to face training with our seniors, to group sessions with fellow interns. The material presented was clear and concise and no expense is spared with regards to access to resources and materials. Preparation for ICAS exams is also included.

The future prospects are very good, with an attractive graduate salary and many interns receiving a graduate offer after completion of the internship. There is clear progression to management early on with lots of support to help you achieve your personal goals within the company. Although other employers pay a greater starting salary, PwC compensate in different ways such as paying for ICAS and exam leave

Fellow interns were very like minded and social. We had regular social events such as nights out, meals together, dancing, escape rooms. Most people live away from home during the internship so are keen to socialise after work and during weekends. Colleagues also regularly have work drinks, work lunches and other social events.

Edinburgh is an expensive city to live in, with ren typically costing around 500 per month plus bills. Most places are within walking distance so travel costs are negligible. Drink prices can be expensive, costing around £5 for a pint of beer. There are lots of bars and entertainment options close to the office.

The nightlife was varied with lots of bars and restaurants located close to the office. Nightlife could be expensive however, most bars run mid week deals such as happy hour and other promotions. Most students leave the city for summer so clubs are less busy than compared with during the semester.

There were many opportunities to get involved with activities outside of work, such as hockey, netball, football as well as many networking events. As most of the work is based on client site, extra activities allow you to meet and socialise with your colleagues on a regular basis. Many clubs can be subsidised also.