Undergraduate Review

I really enjoyed the insight programme. I found it very useful to learn more about the tax and assurance service lines. The information was provided in a variety of ways which helped to capture our attention. There were question and answer panels, partner talks, a tax hot topics talk and various other presentations. In the evening we were invited out to a restaurant in Canary Wharf by EY and there were multiple representatives sitting with us at the tables. I really enjoyed this as it enabled us to converse in a relaxed environment and find out more about the working life at EY and ask any other questions. On the second day we took part in a case study and presentation. I really enjoyed this as we had the chance to work really closely within our teams, and everyone became very involved and passionate. Throughout the insight programme there were activities like: ice breakers, and quizzes to liven things up and there were multiple social media competitions to take part in.

I felt very valued throughout the whole time. EY put a huge effort in to show what their company is like and for us to be able to see if it is a right match for us. They were very enthusiastic the whole time and they continually emphasised that we are the future of the firm.

During the insight I received a lot of guidance and support. Each morning there was someone waiting in the lobby who would take us up to the correct floor,and throughout the day there were always people around who you could go to with questions. During the case study there was an EY representative on each table for each group who we could ask questions to if we were unsure about certain aspects of the task or terminology within the firms' documents.

During the insight programme we had to partake in a case study and then present our pitch to 'the client'. Through this exercise I developed team work skills, communication and analytical skills. Throughout the insight programme I developed my knowledge of the tax and assurance service lines and the company. At the end we were given a talk about the next stages and the interview process for internships which was very useful.

On the first day we had various talks on the tax and assurance service lines. There were a variety of talks from graduates to partners. The days were well structured and we were always told in advance what the programme for the day was and when we would receive lunch and have breaks. I would have liked the first day to have been more interactive, as listening for such a long period of time was quite tiresome. Overall the insight programme was very well organised and even though there were multiple people running the activities you could tell they were all in cohesion with one another.

The atmosphere was extremely welcoming. EY made a huge effort to accommodate us. When we arrived there were goodybags for everyone and throughout the programme social media activities were run with prizes to win. All the employees were very approachable and friendly and it highlighted the fact that EY is a 'people' firm. The other undergraduates on the course were also really friendly and throughout the programme we were given an multiple opportunities to get to know each other better.

Throughout the insight we were given multiple opportunities to talk with recent graduates who told us about their routine and how they balance work with learning for their exams. We were also told about the various opportunities the company offers, like: secondments and charity events etc.

The company culture was the aspect which was highlighted the most. Every single speaker emphasised the point that EY is 'a people firm' and when asked why they have been at EY for so long, they all said it was due to the people. This became very apparent not just through the talks but also simply speaking to the associates,managers and partners themselves. Everyone was very friendly and bubbly and it was evident to see that they all enjoy their jobs because of the camaraderie.

I found this day very valuable in helping to decide in my career path. Before coming on this day I knew that I was interested in the financial services sector, but was unsure about which service line would be suited to me. This insight day enabled me to understand what the assurance and tax service lines are, and the sort of projects that they deal with. After speaking with multiple EY employees throughout the 2 days and partaking in the activities I have decided that I would like to pursue a career in the assurance service line.

All travel expenses were reimbursed (up to £100) and accommodation was provided for those who lived more than a 2 hour commute away. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea was provided on both days and dinner was also provided on the first day. The reimbursement was easy to sort out - I simply had to fill out a form and attach my tube tickets.

The networking opportunities were excellent. During the first day at lunch there were multiple graduates we could talk to, and then at dinner we were seated with one EY representative per 5 people, so this enabled us to have detailed conversations. Throughout the programme we could talk to the partners presenting during the breaks etc.

We didn't find out that much about the activities available for employees outside of work. It was briefly mentioned whilst talking about the social aspect of the firm. There were multiple charity opportunities, like mud runs and marathons, and we were told that alot of the regional divisions have sports teams etc.

I would definitely recommend this insight to a friend. EY was extremely welcoming and I felt comfortable within the first 10 minutes. It was very useful to find out about the company and the service lines. The activities and presentations were all interesting and by the end I left feeling like I had gained knowledge and skills through the insight programme.