Work shadowing associate Review

First of all, I had to two one round of online assessments and then a virtual interview- both of which I enjoyed thoroughly and that gave me an in depth idea for what to expect for future apprenticeship applications.
The week involved coming into the Birmingham office (hours 9-5) three times in the week and then online for the remaining two (we were given a laptop from RSM to use for the duration of the programme). I enjoyed the whole week and it solidified my decision to pursue a higher apprenticeship in audit. After the programme, RSM was my first choice but unfortunately there was a mixup when I applied to the apprenticeship with the system using my ‘work email’ (which I couldn’t access) rather than my personal email which I replied with. It was a shame since I found RSM a wonderful company with a friendly and inclusive work culture as well as many opportunities available to progress within the company.

I really enjoyed the work experience, it helped solidify my decision to pursue a higher apprenticeship in audit and I thoroughly enjoyed the group I was with- both the other attendees my age and the group of individuals employed my RSM, it was a friendly environment.

The actual work experience was incredibly well organised, the interviewing process went quickly and I heard back soon after as well. They called me back if I missed a call and on all the online sessions it was very prompt. However, when I applied for the RSM apprenticeship the system used my ‘work email’ which I didn’t have access to rather than the personal email I replied with, so unfortunately I never heard back after my initial application- which was a shame since I enjoyed the work experience week so much.

It immensely helped me. The different service line presentations gave me an overview of different options and it helped solidify my decision to pursue a career in external audit. The whole 9-5 day set up also helped me to imagine what my future could look like and to get a feel of if I would enjoy working in an office environment or not.

I learnt about inclusion programmes as well as a ‘high five’ system they have. It was interesting to also witness in person the office culture at Birmingham- I was pleasantly surprised to see a lack of a ‘hierarchy’. Everyone had their roles, but also everyone was valued and treated with respect. The office was open layout and they had a ‘floating desk’ system which meant you could be sat by a new face everyday!

Yes

It was an inclusive and friendly environment with a work culture that I would’ve enjoyed working in. Clear opportunities for growth and development are also available for progression in a career at RSM.