Navigating the Challenges of Being a First-Year Associate in Tax: A Personal Journey

As a first-year associate in one of the Big Four Accounting firms, I find myself reflecting deeply on my experiences as I approach the end of my initial year. With July around the corner, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed — a sentiment that finds me often curled up in bed, grappling with anxiety and uncertainty about my future.

Currently, I work from home and, sadly, I’m the last remaining first-year associate in my team, which has faced considerable upheaval. Initially, I joined with four other bright newcomers, but due to involuntary transitions and layoffs, I now stand alone in this challenging landscape. Despite being part of a large office, the atmosphere is far from reassuring when I consider how many colleagues have been displaced.

My workload has surged dramatically, with my schedule full of 40+ hour weeks through November. In reality, many weeks see me putting in 50-70 hours, with some weeks even exceeding 80 hours. Adding to the pressure, I’ve just received emails notifying me of additional clients being assigned to me without prior notice or adjustment to my current workload.

On the exam front, the CPA has taken its toll on me, both mentally and emotionally. I have been preparing to tackle the AUD section for the fourth time on Monday. Just recently, I received my third FAR score, and despite feeling more prepared than ever, my preliminary feedback indicated a disappointing drop of 17 points compared to my last attempt.

These compounding challenges leave me feeling utterly drained. The upcoming months loom ahead with a daunting intensity, and the thought of not advancing to senior associate is a constant worry. Given the current job market’s instability, I am increasingly questioning my desire to pursue a long-term career in Accounting.

This journey has been incredibly taxing on my spirit, and I wanted to share my story, hoping to connect with others who may resonate with similar struggles in their professional paths. It’s essential to remember that you’re not alone in facing these daunting challenges. Together, we can navigate the complexities of our careers and ultimately find our way forward.