Debby Wright (Grant Thornton, Liverpool) was awarded four Grade As at AS-level, and already had ten GCSE qualifications. On leaving school she worked in various jobs across a range of industries, including a number of ‘trainee’ roles, but in the end felt that she was really getting nowhere fast. She decided to go for advice on long-term career planning and training as a chartered accountant was one of the top options.
However, despite her excellent academic achievements, Debby was doubtful about her ability. “I never thought I would be clever enough to be a chartered accountant, but I decided to try – and I’ve realised that as long as you work hard and put in the time and effort, it is achievable.”
Debby, an AAT-ACA Fast Track student, is totally convinced that the work-based route was the correct one for her. “During my time doing the AAT qualification, I was gaining really valuable work experience, so I definitely think I made the right choice. I just don’t think university would have suited me – and that’s apart from the fact that I have been earning while I study as opposed to having a student loan to think about paying off. “And I don’t think it has put me at any disadvantage at all. It has required determination – as I take on more senior roles in work, when it comes around to exam time it is sometimes quite challenging to find a balance between work and study.”
