Starting at the firm: Emily, Audit Associate

Emily Dark, one of our Audit Associates, reflects on her first two years at Grant Thornton — from studying for her ICAS exams to representing Scotland in international hockey. She shares how the firm’s culture empowered her to thrive both professionally and personally, offering insights to help future trainees feel confident as they begin their careers and explore the opportunities ahead.

Emily

Grant Thornton UK

First-day nerves and new connections

When I joined Grant Thornton, I was full of questions and nerves, unsure of what to expect from my first full-time role. On my very first day, I met up with a few other new joiners at a local coffee shop. We were all in the same boat – equally excited and nervous – and it felt reassuring to know I wasn’t the only one!

After our first two-days, we were off to Birmingham for Talent, the firm-wide induction event for all new apprentices and graduates. This was a fantastic opportunity to start making new connections, bringing together new joiners from across the UK and introducing us to many of the firm's leaders. We learned about the firm’s culture and values as well as different service lines and what would be expected of us over the next few months, giving me a great sense of what was to come.

Finding my feet: Training, teamwork, and early lessons

After Talent, the real work began! Our days were packed with training sessions and assignments from various teams working on different clients. In my first week, I was invited to my first external client meeting – I was nervous at first, but it turned out to be an invaluable experience. The support in the office was incredible, and I soon began to feel like I was truly contributing to the company and getting to know more people.

To other trainees starting their journey, I’d say it’s good to ask as many questions as you can. I struggled with this at university because I didn’t want people to think I was asking “stupid questions”, but at Grant Thornton, the more you ask, the more you develop. Plus, there are no "stupid" questions – just opportunities to learn!

As the year progressed, we started the new ICAS curriculum, taking on our first five exams. All trainees get paid study leave, but it’s not always one solid block – so learning to balance work and study is essential. If I ever felt uncertain about deadlines, I knew I could reach out to my people manager, tutors or colleagues for support – everyone at the firm has been through it or is going through it with you, so you’re not alone.

Two-way flexibility: Balancing work, study, and hockey

My journey during my first year was definitely unique! As well as working and studying at the firm, I play international hockey for the Scotland Ladies Team and in the Premiership league for Watsonians Hockey Club.

I love hockey, and it’s been a privilege to have opportunities to compete and travel. In my first year at the firm, I competed in the Club European Championships in Germany and Türkiye with Watsonians, as well as representing Scotland on the international stage, playing against teams from Spain, France, and Canada. The highlight was competing at the European Qualifiers in Glasgow, where we secured a gold medal with a home crowd.

This part of my life keeps me very busy, so when I first started at the firm, I was worried about balancing my hockey activities alongside work and study – but in such a supportive culture, I’ve been able to thrive.

I felt encouraged to find out what worked for me, so I started to experiment with different routines. Around exams, I scaled back on training to focus on studying. During tournament times, I took annual leave to fully immerse myself in the experience. It’s crucial to adapt and remember to make time for yourself – because as much as I love hockey, everyone needs to catch up with friends or have a Netflix binge night every now and then!

Reflections – and what’s coming next

When I look back on my first year at the firm, I’m proud that I managed to not only enjoy my job, but also complete the first level of ICAS, continue playing hockey for Watsonians in European Championships, and represent Scotland for hockey.

My second year has been another whirlwind of professional growth and personal adventures. Outside of work I have travelled to the Czech Republic and Portugal to play in European Championships and some much-needed annual leave to spend time with friends and family.

At work I have stepped up and taken on more responsibility, tackling more complex areas of the audit file and working more closely with team members (whilst still working through ICAS exams with the support of my colleagues).

One of the most rewarding experiences has been coaching the new starters, guiding them through their first tasks and helping them settle into the team. It was a full circle moment for me, seeing how far I’ve come and having the opportunity to pass on the knowledge and advice I’ve gained along the way.

I’m excited for what’s to come in my third year as an audit associate, learning project management skills, navigating even more client conversations and expanding my technical knowledge. On top of this I’m aiming to complete my ICAS exams and to finally become exam qualified! I’ll also have more hockey competitions in France and the Netherlands, competing against some of the best players in the world.

Roll on a year of growth, hard work and invaluable learning experiences!