Embracing the Challenge – Our 2025 Graduates' first exam experience

Joining SHORTS as a graduate is more than just the start of a new job - it’s the beginning of an exciting journey filled with growth, learning, and achievement. Our latest intake of graduates recently showed just how rewarding this experience can be, especially when it comes to tackling their first professional exams. Having only recently sat their first set of professional exams, we caught up with them to find out how it felt to prepare and sit the exam, and what their experience of the process had been.

We make sure our graduates have everything they need to prepare for their exams: in-person training with First Intuition and plenty of support from us. And the bonus? It’s all scheduled during study leave, so there is no obligation to take time off or complete this within their own time.

Nerves and expectations

From the outset, there was a real sense of anticipation. For some, it had been years since their last exam, while others were diving into completely new subject areas. Despite the natural nerves, there was a shared excitement about the opportunity to learn and prove themselves. The challenge was embraced as a chance to grow, and the atmosphere was one of encouragement and mutual support.

Daniel said
"I did not have an accounting background before starting Shorts and therefore had to learn and remember a lot of new information." 

Preparation and support

Preparation became a journey in itself. Graduates made the most of every resource - working through question banks, taking mock exams, and focusing on areas where they could improve. Many dedicated time each evening and weekend, not just to study, but to build confidence and mastery.

The support from the SHORTS team was described by them as outstanding: study plans were tailored, nerves were calmed, and practical advice was always on hand. Structured study sessions and the flexibility to take a day off before the exam made a real difference, helping everyone feel ready and empowered.

Archie said
"I went over the question bank multiple times to make sure I got adequate question practice as well as making me feel more confident as to what to expect in the real exam." 

Lucy said
"I got so much support from both Ian and Lana. Lane helped sort a study plan for me which helped me manage my time well."

Jack said
"I did around 2 hours each weeknight and then 3 on the weekends for the 2 weeks leading up to the exam and that seemed to be enough as I passed comfortably"

The wait, the results and the celebration

The wait for results was filled with anticipation, but the  quick turnaround meant that most graduates received their results the very next morning; turning nerves into moments of celebration. The joy and relief of passing were shared by all, reinforcing their sense of achievement and progress.

Lucy said
"We got the results at 5am the next morning. I was very nervous but happy to have the exam out of the way."

Archie said
"I wasn't as nervous as before the exam, as I felt I had done enough in the exam to pass ."

Daniel said
"I was very happy, as I passed!"

Reflections on the process

Looking back, the exam journey proved to be a rewarding and transformative experience. While the process was certainly challenging and required dedication, it offered an incredible opportunity for personal and professional growth. Graduates found themselves learning more than they expected, building confidence, and developing valuable independent study skills. The sense of achievement after overcoming each hurdle was motivating, and the experience brought everyone closer to reaching their qualification goals. Many now feel better equipped for future exams, grateful for the support received, and proud of how far they’ve come in such a short time.

Lucy said
"The process was more intense than I expected but felt very supported and that I had access to everything I needed."

Final reflections

The 2025 Graduates have shown that with determination, the right mindset, and the right support, even the toughest challenges can become stepping stones to success. Their advice to future intakes? Embrace every opportunity, lean on your peers and mentors, and remember that every challenge is a chance to grow. ~When you're a part of our team, here at Shorts, you’re never alone on your journey - and every achievement is worth celebrating.