Meet Foundation Student Lola

Studying Accountancy at school, I really enjoyed how it just seemed to make sense – using the rules and structures I learned to solve problems. Although my high school didn’t have a high progression rate to university, and no one in my family had studied at university, I was encouraged to apply to university by my teachers because I had a strong interest in accountancy. I chose the University of Edinburgh because it was close to home and I was familiar with the city, along with its reputation as an outstanding university offering an accredited Accountancy course. I loved my time at university – I made lots of friends on my course, which really helped with encouraging each other.

It was one of my teachers who told me about the ICAS Foundation, and I immediately saw the benefits of applying – it was an amazing opportunity, and I didn’t want to miss applying. Having the Foundation’s assistance when starting university was so useful in helping me adjust to the university environment and learning style. I was probably naïve about how expensive university would be though – the Foundation’s assistance helped with purchasing textbooks, my accommodation fees and funding my travel, both around Edinburgh and for visits home. 

Juggling studying along with part time employment was one of my biggest challenges – I was the only one of my friends with a part time job, but having a good study plan really helped with managing my academic workload and still having some time to relax. The study plan was especially important In my final year for managing my dissertation, module work, part time work and applying for graduate roles – it helped me stay focused on applying for the graduate roles I really wanted. 

The mentoring programme is really what makes the ICAS Foundation. I was paired with Rhea throughout my time at university, and we had a great relationship. Having the support of someone who completed my exact route was so beneficial – she helped me with university, job applications and industry insights, including my knowledge of potential routes in the profession. After achieving my graduate role at Deloitte, Rhea shared her experience of working at a Big 4 company to help me prepare for the workplace as well. 

The opportunity to attend events was a real benefit from the Foundation programme. At the ICAS Gold Club Lunch, for CAs who have been qualified for 50 years or more, I had the opportunity to speak to experienced CAs and hear their stories, such as how the workplace had changed for women in the profession. I’ve also enjoyed events where I’ve met other Foundation students, like the ICAS Foundation’s 10th Anniversary event and Programme Conference - these events help build a sense of community within students and graduates, and they have been highlights of my time with the Foundation. 

The Foundation’s support is always practical. Having the half year and end of year reports helped me keep up with my studies, stay focused and assess my progress. I was encouraged to apply for internships, and this was a big factor in helping me get to grips with the process - having the internships then prepared me really well for the graduate workplace. Getting to where I am today would have been much more difficult without the Foundation’s support.

I would tell every ICAS Foundation student – get involved in every opportunity offered to you. Attending events and meeting others on the programme, as well as those working in the profession, were some of the most important benefits I received from being part of the Foundation. It’s also so important to start applying for insight day and internship opportunities as soon as possible, as every opportunity will help you learn more about what you want to do.

I really enjoy working at Deloitte – my role is helping me build the foundations of my future career, while starting study for my ICAS exams to become a Chartered Accountant. I really enjoy working with my team and learning about the wide variety of opportunities within Audit as a career, and discovering how the introduction of technologies such as AI are helping to develop new skills within the profession. 

I’m now an Alumni Ambassador for the Foundation, and it’s great to give back, having received so much support when I was a student, and helping me successfully transition from university to a career in accountancy. I know that the Foundation will continue to be there for me as I progress my career – I’m part of a community which will continue to benefit me through my professional career.