Facing Challenges as a First-Year Associate: A Personal Journey

As I sit here at home, wrapped in a blanket, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed. As a first-year associate in one of the Big Four Accounting firms, I’m nearing the end of my inaugural year, and the experience has been anything but easy.

When I joined the firm, I was part of a group of five new associates, but I now find myself as the last one standing. The uncertainty of the current work environment has taken its toll—many of my peers have either been reassigned to different teams or faced layoffs. The reality is stark; I’m now navigating my role solo in a demanding environment that is continually changing.

Looking at my calendar, I see a grueling schedule ahead—a commitment of over 40 hours a week, with many weeks climbing to 50 and even 70 hours. Just as I thought I might catch a break, I received notices about onboarding for two additional clients that haven’t even been factored into my current time commitments. The pressure feels relentless.

On top of this, I am juggling the CPA exams, which have turned into a major source of stress. I’m gearing up to take the Audit section for the fourth time, and the anticipation is daunting. I recently received my score for the Financial Accounting and Reporting section, and despite feeling confident, the preliminary results indicate a drop in performance. The weight of these setbacks has left me feeling defeated.

I find myself questioning not only my ability to continue in this role but also my passion for Accounting as a career. The exhaustion is palpable, and I fear the upcoming months will only escalate this feeling of despair. While my ambition is to progress to a senior position, the thought of navigating this tumultuous job market adds another layer of doubt.

I share my story with the hopes that others can relate to the struggles many first-year associates face in the accounting field. It’s crucial to recognize that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and to seek support. As we all continue to navigate these challenges, perhaps we can find solace in our shared experiences and remember that it’s okay to reassess our paths and seek balance in our professional journeys.