As students started prepping up for another year on campus, Grant Thornton made its presence felt at this year's edition of Freshers' Week at the University of Malta. Apart from giving students the chance to discover what careers are available to them in fields such as audit, tax, accounting and advisory services, Grant Thornton's stand was also home to the iconic Pokemon Pikachu where students could try their skills and luck at catching the maverick character for a chance to win one of several prizes including gym memberships from Westin Workout and Fitness Club 247, as well as computer vouchers and Nutribullet blenders, courtesy of Forestals.

The Grant Thornton stand was full of life and energy as students populated the area to find out more about the exciting career prospects that the firm has to offer interns, or simply to see fellow students battling it out to capture the mighty Pikachu. A number of public figures such as President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, Opposition Leader Simon Busuttil, Education Minister Evarist Bartolo, and a number of members of parliament and MEPs also visited the stand.

Grant Thornton offers a number of summer and winter internship programmes providing those on the programme with real responsibility and insight into life as a trainee. "With our unique culture and opportunities, our organisation is a place where you can grow." commented Grant Thornton managing partner Mark Bugeja, whilst visiting the firm's stand on campus. "Wherever you are in your career, we help our people, be it seasoned professionals or those that are just starting, to make a difference every day."

"Opportunities at Grant Thornton are vast, which is important for students like myself", stated Claire Agius, an intern who joined the firm's tax division in 2015, and is reading for a Bachelor's Degree in Economics and Banking and Finance. "The best thing about this internship is its flexibility, where I can fit working hours around my schedule and academic requirements. I am not tied to a fixed schedule, which gives me ample time to also work on assignments and revision. Another driving element is the approachability of the partners and senior management," added Leona Galea, another Grant Thornton intern from the Accounts division. "What I really appreciate at Grant Thornton is the flow of exchange of ideas and knowledge, making it easier for me to not only do my job well, but also to learn by observing others. This is complemented by ongoing training, including an intense on-boarding programme which helps provide a holistic view of the firm's operations."

"As a team we operate in a really hands-on way and I can guarantee you'll be challenged from the outset." Continued Leona, "You will however be surrounded by a team that is welcoming and helpful, and it makes a big difference when you have that level of support. Here, it's not just all about work, the firm also works hard to create a fun culture: from small things like mqaret with ice cream on hot summer's days and Friday drinks, all the way up to our annual summer and Christmas parties. Our events and social team work hard all year round to organise events that all staff can get involved in.

For more information on careers available with Grant Thornton one can send an email on [email protected] or visit www.grantthornton.com.mt