Summer Internship Review

The internship provided me with a great insight into the corporate life and a career in accounting. This insight at EY fulfilled my hopes to gain a clearer vision of my future career path. Although the whole internship lasted for only over two months, the presentation and projects were all really interesting.

We were all not treated differently from and by other employees which made me feel valued during my entire time at EY. The advisors all were really helpful and seemed genuinely interested in us. We were encouraged to ask many questions and to engage with other employees to get a better feel of the company.

In my point of view, the focus on personal development rather than ‘selling’ the company was one of the best aspect of EY's Summer Programme. All the skills that I have acquired during my time there will be certainly very valuable when going through future assessment centres. We were accompanied by advisors all the time and could chat with graduates about their experience and ask for tips.

I haven’t learned much technical knowledge about accounting aside from what a career and daily tasks would involve. However, my transferable skills have improved due to the new and uncertain situation. It was the first time for me being part of such a large organisation and networking with so many new people.

The atmosphere was a bit competitive in my opinion. Everyone tried to make a good impression and were not too interested in each other. This made networking a bit more difficult but the atmosphere eased a bit over time. I think this is because we got to know each other more. But generally, the culture of the company was professional yet nothing to be afraid of.

The internship was very well structured. At no point of time did I felt bored or that this internship is unorganised. Everything followed a clear schedule and our days were packed with many networking events, presentations and tasks. This kept us busy throughout the internship which I thing was a positive thing.

The company EY has invested a lot to prepare and organise this internship. Everything was well prepared and structured. Employees, graduate and senior managers have taken their time to talk with all of us. All of the things were provided and their presentations were extensive and specifically tailored to our needs as university students.

Although the insight lasted a few weeks, it was enough to learn more about the culture. It is a large organisation with hierarchy but I think that this is a good thing. Everyone has the chance to move the corporate ladder up. However, the culture was still friendly, open, yet professional. Everyone seemed nice to each other and not standing in competition. The happier I am that I have got a job with them.

This internship at PwC has certainly reinforced my decision to become an accountant. I am more excited than ever because the insight exceeded my hopes and expectations. EY is a great company to work for, the environment and culture is better than its reputation and the tasks and challenges that an accountant will face on a daily basis attracts me.