We meet Isack, a recent graduate now working as a Trainee Accountant. He shares valuable insights and answers questions for current students pursuing a degree in Finance and Economics.

Describe a day in your life since graduating?

Since staring my journey as a Trainee Accountant, I typically begin my day by checking my timetable any new tasks that need attention. I review my emails to catch up on any client-related tasks. My responsibilities include preparing accounts and assisting with VAT returns. As a new trainee, I’m still getting familiar to the accounting software, which is essential before I can handle more complex tasks. In the afternoons, I attend team meeting and spend time preparing for my professional qualifications, which I believe are key to advancing my career in accounting.

Are there any habits or practices you have adopted post-graduation that enhance your daily life?

One of the main practices I’ve adopted since starting my new role is maintaining a healthy work-life balance. At work, I stay proactive by asking questions, applying the Excel skills I learned at university, and managing multiple tasks. On weekends, I make sure to enjoy myself by playing 5-a-side football, watching football matches, or occasionally going out, like when I watched the Joshua vs. Dubois fight recently. For me, this is a great way to unwind, see my friends, and keep that balance between work and life.

What advice would you give to current students about making the transition from academic to professional work life?

Starting your professional career can be daunting, as it marks the beginning of a new chapter, and you might not be sure what to expect. However, from my experience and conversations with friends, I’ve found that companies typically start you off with simpler tasks and genuinely want to help you succeed. They incorporate you into the team, and there’s no pressure to hit the ground running immediately. My advice is that if you’re struggling with a task, don’t hesitate to ask for help—people don’t expect you to know everything right away.

Were there any courses in F+E or experiences that significantly shaped your career trajectory?

One course that had a significant impact on my career was Corporate Governance. It provided me with a strong foundation in understanding how to analyse financial statements, which is a core part of my current role. Additionally, I reached out to people with prior experience in the industry, whether they were lecturers or friends who had already graduated. Their insights helped grow my interest and ultimately led me to pursue a career in audit.