From Internship to Graduate Role - Zaid’s Story
For Zaid Harrak, university was always about creating opportunities that hadn’t existed before.
He chose to study accountancy because he wanted to build a different future for himself. Like many Foundation students, he knew where he wanted to go, but getting there wasn’t always straightforward.
A summer internship with AAB changed that.
Based in the firm’s growing London office, Zaid joined the Global Mobility Tax team. While he had a home department, he was encouraged to meet colleagues from across the business, get involved in different projects and make the most of every opportunity.
At first, stepping into a professional office was daunting,
“Seeing people busy, all with laptops, was daunting. But within a few weeks I felt right at home.”
Rather than waiting for opportunities to come to him, Zaid actively sought them out,
“I asked managers if they had anything I could do. At first they said no, but by the end of the day I’d have a list of things to get stuck into.”
That approach gave him experience across a range of projects, working with international clients and learning the practical skills that can’t be taught in a lecture theatre. Along the way, he also learnt the value of asking questions, seeking feedback and being willing to step outside his comfort zone.
By the end of the internship, AAB offered Zaid a graduate role as a Global Mobility and Employment Tax Assistant.
When we first interviewed him, he reflected on what that meant,
“Going into university was all about bettering myself and changing my circumstances. That path is opening for me now.”
The job offer brought something else too - certainty. Instead of spending his final year submitting graduate applications and preparing for assessment centres, Zaid could focus on achieving the First-class degree he’d always wanted.
We’re delighted to say he has now done exactly that.
“Achieving first-class honours feels really rewarding. It was the goal I had been working towards over the last three years, so it's a moment I'm really proud of. I'm also very excited to be starting my graduate role at AAB. It'll be great to work again with the people I met during my internship, meet new colleagues, and hopefully get the chance to support some of the next ICAS Foundation interns.
Looking back, Zaid also has some advice for other Foundation students considering an internship.
"My advice for anyone applying for internships would be to put yourself out there, even if you don't feel completely ready. Be willing to learn, ask questions, and make the most of every opportunity - enthusiasm and a positive attitude can go a long way.”
His story is a reminder of what internships can make possible. They help students build confidence, understand the profession, develop practical skills and demonstrate what they can do over time. For students without established professional networks, one opportunity can make all the difference.
Interested in helping more students take that first step? Get in touch to find out how your organisation can partner with the ICAS Foundation to create life-changing opportunities.
