After setting her heart on a career with the 'Big Four', Sope successfully secured a place on the Deloitte Graduate Scheme through the Bright Network Fast Track. We caught up with Sope to find our more about her experience.
Why did you choose this firm and this role?
Working in the "Big Four" has always been a dream of mine, and when I heard about Deloitte's fast track applications in July 2016 I knew I had to apply. Deloitte is a well-known company, whose culture and values drives it to be at the forefront of its industry. For that very reason, I decided to apply and try my luck!
I chose to apply to Risk Advisory because I previously had some experience in the industry. During Year 12, I was very lucky to have secured a weeks work experience with the Risk Advisory team at Total Gas and Power. Being able to see what they do on a day-to-day basis made me want to work as a risk analyst and the fact that no two days are the same encouraged me more.
What was the toughest part of the application process and what was your favourite part?
The toughest part of the application process for me was the partner interview. It is the last stage, so there is a lot of pressure on you to perform well and succeed. But, saying that, once you get over the initial nerves it is actually very easy. Just be yourself and back up every point with a relevant example and you should be fine!
For that reason alone, I would say my favourite part of the application process was also the partner interview. I was very lucky to meet a very lovely partner, who not only challenged my answers but also allowed me to dig deeper in my reasoning. Learning about my interviewer’s own career and hearing their advice really motivated me.
What’s your top tip for your fellow Bright Network members?
Research!!! I can't stress enough how much this helps. Do your research on the firm; understand their values and their culture. If you're going into a specific role (i.e. auditing), try to look at their transparency records. Look at any recent news regarding the firm and the industry you're going into. All of this really helps, both when you’re preparing and in the actual interview itself.
What's your lucky charm or pre-interview ritual?
A prayer always works in my opinion, but also remembering that you've come so far in the journey already and you wouldn't be at this stage if you weren't good enough!
