What’s your view – lessons learned

In every issue of The Bottom Line, we ask students for their thoughts on a particular topic. This month, we want to know: What is the most surprising thing you learned during your training?

Alisha Mullins

Deloitte

When I started my training contract, I was surprised by how much of the experience isn’t about numbers at all! It’s about people.

I’ve learned how important communication, teamwork and confidence are in everyday work. Whether it’s explaining something to a client, asking for help or presenting findings to a manager, those moments teach you just as much as any exam ever could.

I was also surprised by how supportive everyone is and how many opportunities there are to network, both through work and the student society! There’s a real sense of community that helps you find your feet when things get tough.

As I come to the end of my training contract, I can really see how much it has helped me grow in ways I never expected!

Rhona Anderson

Grant Thornton

One of the biggest surprises during my training contract has been how much you get involved in the business side of things.

You’re not just auditing one area of their accounts; you’re encouraged to understand how clients actually run their businesses, and what really matters to them. This often leads to conversations with senior colleagues and even partners, who are always willing to share their experiences and advice. It’s been really encouraging to see how open and supportive they are.

Another highlight has been the sense of teamwork among the other trainees. Balancing work and exams can be tough, but everyone looks out for each other.

Whether it’s swapping study tips, having a laugh after a long day in the office, or celebrating those big milestones together, there’s a real feeling that you’re all in it together. For me, that mix of real responsibility and genuine camaraderie has been the best part of the experience!

Egle Urbonaite

EY

I am now heading into my second year of the training contract and there are a few surprises that I wasn’t expecting from this experience.

First, I would say the client interaction. As I started in audit, I had really underestimated the importance of the relationship an auditor has with their clients. I thought since we rarely meet clients face-to-face, I wouldn’t have many opportunities to develop my professional skills at my level. I quickly realised that wasn’t the case, and each interaction has helped me build both courage and communication skills.

Another thing that surprised me was myself. As I began this new chapter with all these new opportunities in front of me, I learned so much about what kind of person I want to be and gained more insight into what interests me.

One of the biggest opportunities I had was to be part of the set-up of the regional student society in the South-East.