#TalentTuesday – Louise Wilson

Where and what did you study at University?

Accountancy with Finance at University of Dundee.

Why did you choose a career in Accountancy?

I quite liked maths & business management at school, so accountancy sort of combined the two together. I also wanted a professional qualification and ICAS gives you that.

Why did you choose to apply to EQ Accountants to complete your professional qualification?

I liked the idea that you aren’t pigeon-holed with which area of accountancy you work in at EQ, so you get involved with all areas such as accounts preparation, tax, audit, etc. One of my lecturers also said that you would receive good training here and that’s exactly what you want from a traineeship.

What is a day in the life of a CA Trainee like?

I have a portfolio of clients which I help look after along with Managers and Partners in terms of their compliance and any other work we are doing for them, so it’s pretty much the same as a day of a qualified CA except I have to go home and study after work.

What do you enjoy most about being a CA Trainee at EQ?

Being treated like a regular member of staff, rather than just a trainee. It’s much better being thrown in at the deep end because it helps your development a lot quicker.

What have you found the most surprising during your training with EQ?

The level of responsibility I’ve been given and the opportunities of exposure to different jobs and clients I’ve had so early on. Also the level of support you’re given around exam time as Partners recognise it’s in their interest that you pass your exams as soon as possible too.

What 3 qualities do you think a CA Trainee needs to have if they are to be successful?

Have focus, determination and commitment, because working full time and studying at the same time is tough but you just need to remember it will all be worth it in the end.

Do you have any advice for those interested in applying for our graduate training vacancies this year?

Be confident and show that you’re a sociable person because you need to be able to work well with the people in your office and also be able to confidently communicate with clients. Also be able to demonstrate that you’re able to cope under the pressures of balancing work and study.

If you’re interested in finding out more about joining us to commence a Chartered Accountancy Traineeship, you can read more via: Graduate Recruitment.