Meet Kelechi
Following a successful 8-week summer internship in 2024, Kelechi returned to the NAO in September 2025 as an Audit Associate on the ACA Chartered Accountancy Training Scheme shortly after graduating from University of Warwick with a degree in Economics. Here, they share their early experiences of starting the graduate scheme and offer tips for those considering a similar path.
What motivated you to return and join the graduate scheme after your internship?
I really enjoyed the internship and felt like I was trusted with a lot of work to do. Everyone at the NAO whilst I was interning made me feel very welcome and it was a great community.
How did it feel coming back to the organisation after a year away?
It didn’t feel too different as I was already used to the building and ran into a few familiar faces. I would say the slightly daunting difference was that this time round I am not returning to a year of university after, but this was to be the new norm.
What are you most looking forward to as you begin your graduate journey?
I am looking forward to getting some experience in financial audit. I am excited to get started working on some audits.
Are there any skills or experiences from your internship that you’re already finding useful?
Some of the language used around the office like the use of acronyms I was able to pick up during my internship and have found it easier to understand now that I am working here full time.
Do you have any advice to offer graduates that are starting to apply for graduate jobs/schemes?
I would say enjoy the first few weeks, enjoy getting to know your fellow grads and be careful to stay on top of your ACA work as it is very easy to fall behind.