When I applied for CT's summer internship programme, a career in accountancy wasn't something I had always planned for. As a student studying Economics and Mathematics, I was naturally interested in analysing data, solving problems, and understanding how businesses and economy’s function. However, I hadn't seriously considered accountancy as a career path, nor did I have any prior accounting experience.
Looking back now, that's exactly what has made this internship such a valuable experience. Over the course of rotations in Audit, ABA, Personal Tax, and Corporate Tax, I've gained exposure to an industry that was largely unfamiliar to me and discovered just how diverse, challenging and rewarding a career in professional services can be.
What drew me to CT's internship programme?
One of the main reasons I was attracted to CT's internship programme was its rotational structure. Unlike many internships that place students in a single department, CT offers the opportunity to work across several service lines, allowing interns to develop a broad understanding of the firm and the profession.
For someone like me, who wasn't completely sure what area of business or finance I wanted to pursue, this was particularly appealing. Rather than committing to one specialism, I was able to experience multiple disciplines and learn what day-to-day work looks like across different teams.
I was also drawn to the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in a supportive environment. Coming from an Economics and Mathematics background with no accounting experience, I wanted an internship that would challenge me while also providing the guidance needed to develop new skills. From day one, CT has delivered exactly that.
Applying without an accounting background
If there's one thing I've learned, it's that you don't need an accounting degree or prior industry experience to succeed on this internship.
Initially, I was slightly apprehensive about joining a professional services firm without having studied accountancy. However, I quickly realised that many of the skills developed through my degree are highly transferable.
Economics has taught me how to think critically about businesses, markets and decision-making. Mathematics has strengthened my analytical thinking, attention to detail and ability to solve complex problems logically. These skills have been incredibly valuable throughout every rotation.
Of course, there was a learning curve. Accounting terminology, tax legislation and audit procedures were all completely new concepts to me. However, CT's teams were incredibly supportive and always willing to answer questions and explain unfamiliar concepts. Rather than feeling disadvantaged by my background, I found that approaching each rotation with curiosity and a willingness to learn allowed me to develop quickly.
Advice for future applicants
For future applicants, particularly those without an accounting background, my biggest piece of advice would be don't let a lack of experience put you off applying.
The purpose of an internship is to learn. What's far more important than existing technical knowledge is demonstrating enthusiasm, a strong work ethic and a genuine willingness to get involved.
Throughout the recruitment process, focus on the skills and experiences you already have. Whether those come from university, part-time work, extracurricular activities or other experiences, employers value candidates who can communicate effectively, think critically and approach challenges with a positive attitude.
I'd also recommend researching the firm thoroughly and taking the time to understand its culture and services. Showing genuine interest in the organisation makes a significant difference.
Learning across different rotations
One of the most rewarding aspects of the internship has been the opportunity to work in several different departments.
In Audit, I developed an understanding of how businesses' financial information is reviewed and verified. The role required strong analytical skills and attention to detail, both of which are areas I have developed through studying Mathematics.
My ABA (Accounting and Business Advisory) rotation demonstrated how accountants support clients beyond compliance requirements. I enjoyed seeing how financial information can be used to help business owners make informed decisions and improve performance.
Personal Tax introduced me to the complexities of the UK tax system and highlighted the importance of providing tailored advice to individuals. It demonstrated how technical expertise can have a direct impact on clients' financial outcomes.
Similarly, my experience in Corporate Tax exposed me to another highly specialised area of professional services. It was fascinating to see how tax considerations influence business decisions and the strategic role advisers play in helping organisations navigate increasingly complex regulations.
The variety of work across these departments has shown me that accountancy is far broader than many people assume. Before this internship, I viewed accounting primarily as working with numbers and financial statements. I now have a much greater appreciation for the advisory, analytical and relationship-focused aspects of the profession.
Personal and professional growth
For me, the most significant outcome of this internship has been the confidence I've gained.
Starting in an industry where I had little prior knowledge pushed me outside my comfort zone from the outset. There were countless occasions where I encountered unfamiliar concepts, systems and processes. However, each challenge became an opportunity to learn.
I've developed stronger professional communication skills, become more comfortable asking questions, and learned how important collaboration is within a professional environment. I've also gained experience managing competing priorities and adapting quickly when moving between different departments.
Professionally, I've developed a much clearer understanding of what working in professional services involves. Personally, I've become more confident in my ability to learn new skills and succeed in unfamiliar situations.
Has the internship changed my career goals?
Without question, yes.
Before joining CT, I didn't originally envisage myself pursuing a career in accountancy. My focus was largely on the broader opportunities available through Economics and Mathematics, and I viewed accountancy as just one of many possible career paths.
However, this internship has completely changed my perception of the profession.
Through my rotations, I've discovered that accountancy combines many of the things I enjoy most: analytical problem-solving, working with clients, understanding businesses and applying technical knowledge to real-world situations. I've also seen the variety of career opportunities available within the industry and how different specialisms offer different challenges and experiences.
While I may not have started the summer intending to enter the profession, I leave with a much stronger interest in pursuing a career within accountancy and advisory services than I ever expected.
Final reflections
My internship at CT has been one of the most valuable experiences of my university journey so far.
I wasn't sure exactly what to expect. What I found was a welcoming and supportive environment that provided exposure to multiple areas of professional services, encouraged continuous learning and challenged me to develop both personally and professionally.
The experience has helped me apply the analytical skills developed through my degree, gain practical business experience, and explore a career path that I had never seriously considered before. Most importantly, it has shown me the value of remaining open-minded to opportunities, as some of the most rewarding experiences can come from stepping into something completely unfamiliar.
For any student considering applying to CT's internship programme, especially those from non-accounting backgrounds, I would strongly encourage you to do so. You might be surprised where the opportunity takes you.
Looking to gain practical experience during the summer?
We offer paid internships every summer with different programmes such as multi-departmental rotational internships and department-specific roles. All these opportunities are listed here. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to HR at HR@ct.me.