Opening Doors to the Big Four: Careers Advice from KPMG, EY and PwC
18 September 2025 - All
Pupils at Wycombe Abbey recently had the privilege of attending a careers webinar hosted by the Royal Geographical Society, featuring directors and associates from three of the world’s leading consultancy firms – KPMG, EY, and PwC. The session offered a rare opportunity to hear directly from professionals about how to successfully apply for graduate roles in these firms, what skills and experiences are most valued, and how degrees like Geography and Economics can be a powerful asset in the world of consulting and audit.
What the Big Four Are Looking For
A key takeaway from the webinar was that degrees such as Geography and Economics are highly respected by top employers. These subjects develop analytical thinking, problem-solving, and a broad understanding of global systems – skills that are directly transferable to consultancy work. Crucially, the speakers emphasised that numeracy and advanced Mathematics are not essential for securing roles in audit or consulting. Instead, firms are looking for candidates who can demonstrate adaptability, communication skills, and a willingness to learn on the job.
Assessment Centres and Applications: What Matters Most
When it comes to applying, the advice was clear: focus on relevant experiences. While extracurricular activities can show well-roundedness, the speakers encouraged students to prioritise meaningful work experience, internships, and involvement in societies that align with their career interests. These experiences help candidates stand out in assessment centres, where employers are looking for evidence of teamwork, leadership, and initiative.
Skills Over Titles: What You Can Offer
While internships remain valuable, the speakers highlighted that what students can do is more important than where they’ve worked. Skills such as data analysis, GIS, and digital literacy are increasingly sought after in consultancy roles. Demonstrating these capabilities – whether through coursework, projects, or independent learning – can make a candidate far more attractive to employers than simply listing job titles.
Study What You Love – and Build From There
Perhaps one of the most empowering messages of the session was that students should choose degrees they genuinely enjoy. Passion for a subject often translates into deeper engagement and stronger academic performance. Employers in the City are looking for graduates who are not only skilled but also motivated and curious. By focusing on personal interests and developing relevant skills along the way, students can carve out successful paths into consultancy and finance.
This webinar was a fantastic opportunity for our students to gain clarity on what it takes to succeed in competitive graduate recruitment. It also reinforced the value of studying subjects like Geography – not just for academic enrichment, but as a genuine pathway into high-impact careers.
Simon Bannister
Head of Geography
Keep up to date with further news from Wycombe Abbey on our social channels.