Reflecting on the past year, my internship at Larking Gowen has been nothing short of transformative.

What began as a step into the unknown has become one of the most valuable experiences in my journey, offering me hands-on experience, industry insights and a solid foundation in the world of accounting.

When I first started, I was excited but unsure of what to expect. I had a solid academic background, but stepping into a real accounting environment was a new challenge. The firm’s welcoming atmosphere helped me transition smoothly. In the first few weeks, I immersed myself in learning the ropes, getting familiar with tools like Excel and CaseWare, and understanding how accounting theories translate into practice.

The early days were about absorbing as much as I could. I participated in the training that all trainees undergo, joined planning meetings, and gradually took on responsibilities that allowed me to apply my training to real-world clients and interactions. The firm’s supportive environment made this learning curve manageable and rewarding.

As I grew more comfortable, my role expanded. I moved from working through example audit files designed to ease me into the world of accounting, to taking on more significant projects, One particularly challenging experience was working on an audit for a client, where I had to identify discrepancies in financial documentation and propose adjustments. This task required a blend of attention to detail and problem-solving — skills that I was still honing, with the guidance of the AICs and other trainees around me.

The firm is large enough to offer diverse experiences while also providing a close-knit teamwork environment and direct access to senior-level accountants and Partners. I wasn’t just another intern; I was treated as an integral part of the team, with opportunities to attend client meetings and social events and to feed back any thoughts I may have had.

Throughout the year, I saw tremendous growth in both my technical and soft skills. I became proficient in accounting software and learned how to interact with clients and what to expect. But the experience I have cherished the most was being pushed outside my comfort zone and realising that accounting is more than just textbooks and exams. It’s about building connections through events, engaging with clients and understanding how our work positively impacts others.

As my internship draws to a close, I feel a deep sense of accomplishment and gratitude. This experience has confirmed my passion for accounting and finance, and has equipped me with the tools I need to pursue a successful career in the field.

So, I just want to take a moment to say, "Thank you, Larking Gowen," truly and sincerely.

Chris Osei