As a Junior Associate at PwC, I started my professional journey in the external audit team in October 2023. This built on the valuable experience I gained during my internship at PwC in February 2023.
To me, being part of the Community of Solvers at PwC means being surrounded by a diverse group of highly skilled professionals who are eager to share their knowledge and expertise. There is no gatekeeping here; everyone is genuinely enthusiastic about helping each other to grow and succeed. This culture of openness and collaboration creates an environment where you feel supported and valued.
I am constantly amazed by the willingness of my colleagues to assist me with a smile and endless patience. Whether it's through informal discussions or structured training sessions or meetings, the flow of knowledge and insights is continuous and enriching. The supportive and nurturing environment enhances my professional growth and makes my work experience incredibly rewarding.
I often work from home, and I truly appreciate the flexibility this provides. Being able to manage my time efficiently and create a comfortable workspace at home has significantly enhanced my productivity and work-life balance. On days when I need to concentrate on tasks that require deep focus, working from home is ideal.
However, regular visits to client offices are also a key part of my routine, allowing me to engage directly with them, understand their needs and maintain a smooth collaboration.
On other days we gather with the team at the office. There’s a unique energy that comes from working side by side with my colleagues. And on Fridays there was the PwC Academy which were amazing moments during my first year where I saw my fellow associates and we could exchange our experiences, see each other’s growth and learn from each other.
Balancing these different aspects of my work — remote, client visits and office — keeps my days dynamic and fulfilling.
Outside of work, I enjoy a variety of activities that help me relax and recharge. I have a passion for learning and currently, I'm dedicating time to studying Italian. It’s both challenging and rewarding to immerse myself in a new language and culture.
Traveling is another significant part of my life. I love exploring new countries, experiencing different cultures and broadening my horizons.
Whether I’m at home or on holiday, I love to read fiction. There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book and letting my imagination soar.
Running has been my passion for years. It’s a great way to stay fit and clear my mind. Whether it’s a quick jog around the neighbourhood or a long run in the park, it’s my go-to method for relieving stress and staying healthy.
Balancing these interests with my work allows me to maintain a well-rounded and fulfilling life.
Absolutely! I had the privilege of being one of the first associates to be immersed in the PwC Audit Academy, a highly intensive, one-year accelerated program. This initiative is designed to double our learning in half the time, providing an unparalleled opportunity for rapid professional development.
Every Friday, we attended Academy sessions, where industry experts delivered in-depth training on various audit topics. The curriculum seamlessly blended theoretical knowledge with practical application, allowing us to immediately implement what we learned in real-world scenarios. This hands-on approach was incredibly valuable, as it reinforced our understanding and honed our skills week by week.
Reflecting on my journey over the past year, I am amazed at how much I have grown. The steep learning curve was challenging but immensely rewarding. I have gained a wealth of knowledge and practical experience that has significantly enhanced my professional capabilities. Looking back, I barely recognize myself due to the substantial growth I have undergone thanks to the Audit Academy.
PwC fosters a culture of support and understanding. Whether it's through flexible working hours, remote work options or the ability to take time off when needed. PwC's commitment to flexibility and work-life balance ensures that I can thrive both professionally and personally and all this from early on in my career.
Embrace the challenges that come your way with enthusiasm and an open mind. The satisfaction you'll feel when you look back at your journey will be profound. You’ll see how your hard work has resulted in your personal growth, new wisdom and accomplishments to be proud of. These experiences will fuel your passion and drive for more. Remember, every step you take is building a foundation for a future filled with success and personal fulfilment. Keep striving, keep learning and know that your dedication is paving the way for a remarkable career.