Ever since I started to have a real understanding of the different career options open to me, it become an ambition to find a job that crossed the fields of business and finance – so accountancy was the perfect option. After completing my GCSE’s and A Levels in Norwich, I decided the time was right to enter the world of work and gain additional qualifications and practical experience within a professional local firm.
The interview and process of joining M+A gave me the reassurance that this was a welcoming firm that would fully support me through my accountancy qualifications. Before starting, I had the opportunity to chat to employees, including other Accounts Trainees, giving me a really helpful insight into M+A life.
It is always going to be a bit daunting starting your first proper job, so it was nice to have other trainees around me. The firm gives me time off to study for my AAT qualification and has a really clear programme for new starters that makes it quick and easy to settle in.
As an accounts assistant working in this department I’m part of a really friendly team, all of whom give me help and advice when I need it. My role is varied which allows me to develop my skills across the different aspects of the profession. From 08:30 till 17:00 I’m based directly in the accounts department, which is giving me great experience which other people my age will not have gained yet. For me, it is ideal to be able to combine the buzz of joining the corporate world and all that it entails with the chance to still broaden my knowledge through recognised qualifications.
Of course, because I joined M+A straight from school, there is always going to be a bit of an adjustment going from the shorter academic day to the slightly longer working one! However, I soon felt at home and I really enjoy each day in the office – working with a great bunch of people.
It is my goal to become a fully qualified Chartered Accountant, I realise this may take me up to 5 years to achieve so in the meantime I am just enjoying the journey. Working at M+A was a really good decision for me and I’m more than happy to be starting out on my career here.
Written by Kieran Flood, Accounts Trainee