What did you study?
studied Business and Accounting in Maynooth and graduated in May 2020. This was an extremely beneficial course as it gave me experience in many areas, from marketing to corporate finance and everything in between as well as providing exemptions from my first set of professional accounting exams.
What attracted you to your current role?
I was primarily attracted to PwC for the fantastic support and opportunities they provide for their graduates. I was always interested in working as an accountant for the opportunity to work in different industries, PwC seemed the perfect choice thanks to their wide variety of clients,both indigenous and international. There is a fantastic culture within PwC, which promotes equality and fairness which makes graduates feel comfortable in asking for help and advice. The professional exam support provided to graduates was incredibly attractive. The lectures, study materials and constant advice and assistance available to graduates is invaluable when it comes to reducing the stress of the professional exams. Furthermore, the training that is provided to new graduates was extremely enticing. The opportunity to meet and network with fellow graduates, as well as having ample time to get used to the work ahead of me was too good to turn down.
What was the most challenging thing about the transition from college?
The biggest challenge has been adapting to the different jobs and challenges that are thrown my way on a daily basis. In college, every day is planned out and predictable, whereas in the working world the day's plan can change instantly. At the beginning I found it intimidating, however with all of the support at PwC, you soon learn to embrace these challenges. These new challenges are fantastic learning opportunities and ensure no two days are the same and this is what makes it exciting. I was especially fortunate to work with a fantastic group of people in the Wexford office. They are always so enthusiastic to help answer my constant barrage of questions. While there are still plenty of days where I can be overwhelmed with the work given to me, working as part of a fulfilling team makes it all worthwhile.
Do you have any mentors in your workplace?
PwC provides a fantastic buddy programme to all new graduates. My buddy did an incredible job of making me feel welcome. The first few weeks can be daunting for any new graduates but the buddy system in PwC does a great job of easing these concerns. Small features such as weekly catchup calls, along with the knowledge that I could always message him whenever I had a problem or question was great. The buddy system eased the stress of transitioning to the workplace and has created lasting friendships. The senior people in PwC also are incredibly friendly and approachable and always have time to listen and provide advice on all aspects of the job.
The most valuable thing you have learned since you joined the workforce?
Realising I can ask for support whenever I feel overwhelmed or have questions in work has been unbelievably valuable. As a graduate it can always be daunting to speak up and ask for help, but everyone in the office really goes above and beyond to take the time to ensure you feel comfortable. With PwC's huge focus on technology, I have also improved my digital skills. The delivery of our work usually involves using online applications and these employability skills will stand to me in my future career. PwC's technology also made it possible for us to successfully work remotely throughout the pandemic with collaborative tools enabling us to communicate effectively amongst each other and with our clients.
How has Covid-19 affected your start in the workplace?
Obviously Covid-19 has made things more challenging for every graduate. PwC ensured that remote working was as easy as possible, with constant communication, we never felt isolated. Our office's social committee did a great job of hosting a virtual games night to help the new graduates meet everyone. Working on audits from home was a steep learning curve, but PwC's fantastic technology made it work smoothly, with collaborative video calls becoming the norm. Small things like the daily online tea break turned into a weekly catchup call for everyone in my group. I must admit I was pretty terrified to join the working world during a pandemic, but I have been fortunate to work with a truly fantastic group of people who have made my first year far easier than I could have expected!
One piece of advice for new graduates?
Take one day at a time, and don't be afraid to admit when you need help. It can be scary joining a new workforce, but it is important to realise how valued you are within the firm. No one wants to admit that they are finding work challenging, but the wide variety of support at PwC is invaluable. Graduates will gain a world of knowledge and experience from team members who will do everything they can to make your first months as easy and enjoyable as possible.
- Jenna Clarke-Molloy
