Navigating the Trials of a First-Year Associate in the Tax Sector

As a first-year associate in one of the Big Four Accounting firms, the transition into professional life can be overwhelming, especially when faced with unexpected challenges. After a long day working from home, I find myself reflecting on my journey so far, and it’s no surprise that the weight of it all feels heavy on my shoulders.

With July marking the end of my first year, I look around and realize I’m now the sole first-year associate in my group. The landscape has dramatically changed; many colleagues have either moved to different areas within the firm or, regrettably, been laid off. Initially, I joined with a cohort of four other new associates, creating a sense of camaraderie that seems all but vanished.

In terms of workload, my schedule has become relentless. From now until the end of November, I’m expected to clock in over 40 hours each week, with the majority exceeding 50. Some weeks push the limits even further, reaching 70 to 80 hours. Recently, I received notifications of being assigned to two additional clients, yet those tasks have yet to be integrated into my current schedule, leaving me feeling even more overwhelmed.

On top of all this, I’m grappling with the daunting CPA exams. I’m set to take the AUD portion for the fourth time this coming Monday. After my third attempt at the FAR exam, I had high hopes, believing I’d performed better than ever. However, the preliminary score reflected a 17-point drop from my previous effort, which was incredibly disheartening.

It’s becoming increasingly difficult to envision a path forward. I find myself utterly exhausted by the pressure and uncertainty that lies ahead, especially considering that the next few months appear daunting. The fear of not advancing to the senior position looms large, particularly in these turbulent economic times.

As I grapple with these feelings, I also face the reality of reassessing my career choices. The prospect of a future in Accounting seems less appealing amidst the turmoil of deadlines and exams. The emotional toll has been significant, leaving me disheartened and questioning my professional aspirations.

If you’re in a similar position or have experienced the rollercoaster that comes with the early years of your career, know that you’re not alone. It’s essential to reach out for support, whether from colleagues, mentors, or professional networks. Taking care of your mental health is equally important as striving for career advancement. Remember, it’s okay to pause,