My Placement Story – Shereen Nekati

My name is Shereen Nekati, and I’m currently in my third year studying Accounting and Financial Management at the University of Sheffield.

As part of a work experience programme offered by the university, I had the opportunity to undertake a placement project with Shorts Chartered Accountants, where I was tasked with a project to further develop onboarding initiatives including a more engaging handbook. My time at Shorts has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m truly grateful for the experiences and learning it offered me.

Why Shorts?

The placement opportunity at Shorts initially caught my attention through the university’s work experience programme. What drew me in further was the chance to work with a trailblazing firm within the accounting industry one known not only for its technical excellence but also for its commitment to people and culture. Shorts has a reputation for putting its employees first, and I was eager to contribute to and learn from such an environment.

What I Expected

As this was my first formal work experience in the UK, I approached the placement with a mix of excitement and nerves. I was especially keen to gain insight into the "people" side of the finance industry something I hadn’t had much exposure to previously. I expected the project to challenge me, but also to give me a better understanding of how values and culture shape a company’s success. I was ready to learn, adapt, and grow throughout the experience.

My Time at Shorts - What I Learned

From the moment I joined the Sheffield office, I was made to feel welcome. The team at Shorts fostered a positive, friendly, and open environment where everyone, from students to senior management, supported one another. It quickly became clear that Shorts truly lives its “people first” culture. Whether it was a quick chat in the kitchen or a one-to-one meeting, every interaction helped me feel more confident and comfortable.

"My time at Shorts has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m truly grateful for the experiences and learning it offered me."  Shereen Nekati.

 

Working on ideas to further develop the employee handbook gave me a unique insight into the extensive support systems Shorts has in place for its employees. From onboarding processes to policies designed to promote work-life balance and reduce burnout, I was impressed by the firm’s proactive approach to wellbeing and inclusion. Seeing the day-to-day interactions within the office also highlighted the importance of fostering a healthy and happy workplace culture.

This project didn’t just strengthen my professional skills, it also helped me understand the human side of working in finance, which is often overlooked but so vital to a company’s long-term success.

Thank You

I’d like to sincerely thank Michelle Adams and Rachel Courtenay for their incredible support and guidance throughout my time at Shorts. Their encouragement helped me feel at ease from day one, and their feedback was instrumental in the successful completion of the project.

Overall, my placement at Shorts has been a pivotal step in both my academic and professional journey. I’ll carry the lessons I’ve learned with me into the future, and I feel more prepared and inspired than ever to pursue a career in accounting that balances both technical knowledge and people-focused values.