A Postcard from PwC: Business and Economics

How I use Economics in my work now:

Economics introduced me to interesting concepts which help me in my day-to-day job:

• Elasticity. If demand for Company X’s products was inelastic in 2018, and Company X increased its prices in 2019, can we expect Company X to have sold a higher or lower volume of products in 2019?
• Information asymmetry. Our clients have access to more information on their financial performance than we do. This increases the risk of fraud in financial reporting. How can we conduct our audits to address this risk sufficiently?
  

My highlight of my job so far

• Completing the audit of a large listed client, having led part of the team. At PwC, I have had the pleasure of working with some of the most bright, motivated and fun people. When you achieve a difficult goal as a team with said people, and you have played a key part in the team, it is a truly rewarding experience. Not to mention all the laughs along the way!
• Finishing all of my ACA exams last summer. Sitting all 15 of the ACA exams in just over two years was a real challenge, but it was totally worth it for what I have learned, and the pride I feel in becoming a qualified chartered accountant.

If I went back in time what piece of advice would I give my 17 year old self?

Be kind to yourself. It can be very difficult to choose what to study, where to study, and what job to pursue. Allow time for plenty of research, reach out to a range of people for advice, and focus on what you enjoy!

How I use Accounting and Communication Studies in my work now:

• I apply Accounting knowledge everyday to assist with the audit of financial statements of clients across various industries.
• I apply knowledge from Communication Studies to engage in daily discussions with clients, co-workers and other stakeholders.

My highlight of my job so far

• Completing my ACCA while working full time
• Taking on the role of the Lead for the Culture network at my current office
• Finding errors and engaging with clients to adjust their accounts!

If I went back in time what piece of advice would I give my 17 year old self?

Do your research and talk to persons in your fields of interest, so that you can make a more informed decision about how to structure your university courses. This will prevent you from taking that Political Sciences course!Most importantly, relax and enjoy your yourself. Stop stressing and aiming for perfection, just continue to do your best. :) “Everything is gonna be alright” like Bob Marley said.