In conversation: Application tips from our interns and co-op students

We continue to put technology, inclusion and innovation at the heart of our selection process and have introduced some exciting changes. We’re now using a cloud-based online application platform, on-demand video interviews and games. These provide candidates with an efficient and convenient application process, saving them time and providing flexibility.

We sat down with some of our 2019 Advance Summer Internship and co-op students (Akram Wahdan, Jeremy Kelly, Marie-Charlotte Hamel and Nicolas Di Marco) and invited them to tell us how they successfully applied to PwC Canada.

Please share a little bit about yourself and your experience so far at PwC Canada.

Akram: I started my career in management consulting with PwC Egypt’s Cairo office in the Deals advisory team. I am now studying for my Masters of Information at the University of Toronto and joined PwC Canada’s Toronto office as an 8-month Associate co-op in its cybersecurity and privacy practice.

Marie-Charlotte: I’m a student at Laval University in accounting. I’ve just completed my summer internship at PwC Canada’s Quebec City office and have had the chance to be a part of engagement teams and work on clients’ sites. This internship has helped me put into practice what I’ve learnt in class. I’ve really enjoyed my internship and look forward to returning to PwC Canada soon.

Jeremy: I joined PwC Canada’s Montréal office as a summer intern and am studying at Carleton University in Ottawa. From day one, the training program and environment was so inclusive that by day 3, I was comfortable interacting with half of the other interns, and by the end of the first 2 weeks, I had already made some great friends! I’ve yet to meet someone who isn’t happy to answer my questions. I’ve learnt about the audit process and had exposure to 3 different industries.

Nicolas: I’m a fourth-year student at Simon Fraser University and have just finished my second internship at PwC Canada’s Vancouver office. I’ve been able to build on my experience from last summer and take on more challenging tasks. It’s really easy to connect with people here; everyone in the firm is always willing to grab a coffee and take the time to get to know you on a personal level and offer coaching.

At PwC Canada, we use technology to provide flexibility to our people. In what ways did you find flexibility while applying to PwC Canada?

Akram: The application process at PwC Canada is the fastest process end-to-end that I have been through. It’s also very flexible by being digital and using on-demand video interviewing and (at the time), assessments. For example, I didn’t need to physically “go” anywhere to submit my application, complete my assessments, or undertake the on-demand video interview. I sat at my desk at home, had my mug of hot chocolate, put on my best smile and went through the process and the on-demand video interview questions as they came.

A unique part of our approach to recruit the best talent to PwC Canada is that the first round of interviews is completely digital and uses our on-demand video interviewing platform. How would you describe your experience with the on-demand video interview?

Marie-Charlotte: I was apprehensive at the start because it was different to what I was used to. However, I soon realized it was a clear and straightforward process. I liked being given practice questions in the platform and having 30 seconds to prepare my responses. I’d recommend having a pen and paper with you to draft notes during the preparation time. Remember, the Campus Talent Acquisition team doesn’t expect you to be flawless in front of the camera. Be natural and think of the on-demand video interview as though it’s your cover letter. It’s a way for the team to see your personality and abilities before meeting you in person.

Nicolas: When I went through the recruitment process two summers ago, both interviews were in-person; now the first round interview is an on-demand video interview. I think the new on-demand video interview offers a lot of flexibility as it’s so much easier to express yourself verbally than it is in a cover letter. My advice for preparing for any interview is to focus on the attributes of the PwC Professional (see the campus recruiting website). You should answer each question by demonstrating how you have these attributes and be prepared with examples. When answering behavioural questions, be as specific as you can with your examples; the more you can bring your interviewer into your story, the more they’ll understand why you’re perfect for PwC Canada!

One of the new additions to our application process is games-based assessments. Having recently undertaken a demo of these, how would you describe your experience with them?

Marie-Charlotte: I really enjoyed them! It’s a fun way to challenge your abilities. They’re super user-friendly and it only takes a few minutes. No preparation is needed.

Nicolas: They’re fun! Two pieces of advice: (1) Read the instructions carefully and make sure you’re prepared. You only have one chance to do your best in these games and you want to give yourself every opportunity to achieve the highest score you’re capable of; and, (2) While the games start out relatively easy they get progressively challenging and adjust to your abilities; even if you start to feel under pressure and you worry that your score isn’t high enough, keep focused and try your best. Remember, the games are just one part of the recruitment process.

Any tips for students on how to succeed when they apply to PwC? Is there anything you wish you’d have known before you applied?

Jeremy and Akram: Be authentic and natural — PwC Canada is diverse and inclusive; don’t try to be someone that you’re not. Embrace who you are and clearly define your “superpower” (i.e. your uniqueness). Prepare, prepare, prepare. Practice with your friends for your interview or practice recording yourself (e.g. see how you can maintain eye contact with the camera). Remember, you’re talking to people. No matter how digital it is or what the platform looks like, it’s going to be people reviewing your application and submission. Be sincere, smile and allow your personality to shine so the people reviewing your on-demand video interview get a feel for who you are.

Marie-Charlotte and Nicolas: Know your strengths and weaknesses. Try to be confident, but not arrogant, and avoid over-emphasizing every detail of your application. You want to make sure you like the PwC Canada culture, so connect with as many people as you can during campus recruitment events and learn about what it’s like to work at PwC Canada. What will separate you from the rest is if you show insight into how you can contribute to the firm and how committed you are to becoming a part of the team. Talking about the different conversations you’ve had with people at PwC Canada in your interview will help demonstrate how you build relationships and are committed to PwC Canada.

As your summer internship comes to an end, what’s your most memorable moment and what’s next for you?

Jeremy: I met people from all levels and teams at some of our social events. Our Casino Night was a blast and a great opportunity to make friends with future colleagues. Our Big 4 volleyball tournament and the day we spent painting over graffiti in our communities were definitely memorable as well! As summer comes to an end, it’s time to reflect and integrate the lessons and values of PwC Canada into school and everyday life. “Reimagine the possible” is one PwC value that really stuck with me and I believe this will help shape my thinking in the future.

Nicolas: The most memorable moment of the summer for me was walking through piles of coal while doing an inventory survey in Fernie and subsequently getting all the white bed coverings in my room black with coal dust! When I signed my offer, I certainly didn’t think I’d be walking through piles of coal at a mine, but that’s an example of the diverse opportunities PwC Canada can offer. Next for me is going back to school and my job as a Teaching Assistant to finish my degree. I’ll then return to PwC Canada full-time in the fall of 2020.

Marie-Charlotte: I had an amazing summer and I’m so grateful for the opportunity. I gained real experience in audit and met lots of great colleagues. I also built strong relationships with my fellow interns and we participated in many activities together. Next, I’ll return to university and continue along the CPA path. I’ll come back to PwC Canada this winter and will write my CFE in September 2020.

Akram: I have a few more months at PwC Canada before I finish my co-op in December. I’ll return to university to complete my Masters in January 2020 and hope to return to PwC Canada shortly after to join its cybersecurity and privacy practice as an Associate.

Thank you to Akram, Jeremy, Marie-Charlotte and Nicolas.

There’s lots more information on our Applying to PwC page, including tips on how to prepare for each step and helpful videos. Learn more about how to get ready to apply!