Spring intern Review

I had a lot of fun in this program, which promoted an informative and supportive atmosphere. A particular highlight would definitely be the hackathon competition where we divided into teams and came up with the solution to a specific problem and pitched our ideas back to a panel of senior staff.

I believe this was the first year EY had had so many people attend a tech-based event so perhaps that contributed to the engagement level with everyone. However we did break into smaller groups for some exercises which meant we got a chance to share our own opinions to EY employees and other spring interns.

A variety of table ‘hosts’ sat down with us in groups, and these were the same people we spent the day with at the office and also at the social in the evening. They were there to answer any questions we had at all and supported us through case study exercises.

I came to this insight programme hoping to actually understand what ‘professional services’ means, and I’ve definitely received but invaluable knowledge of the sector. I would definitely say there are so many niche jobs that I previously had no idea existed, and understood much more about the career options available.

In general, the insight was pretty well structured with a good mix of interactive sessions as well as sit down sessions. However the only caveat would be the first day was practically totally filled with sit down intro presentations which verged on being draining. They definitely did give a great overview of business lines.

The general atmosphere was reasonably relaxed throughout the two days of this programme. We had quite a large number of people to get to know, which was a little intense at times, but still great to make new connections. The organizers were super down to earth which helped settle nerves.

Of course in part to the brevity in duration of the programme we didn’t get much of a chance to receive feedback from staff etc. However, we did receive guidance and advice from a panel discussion where experienced workers spoke to us about their key tips for getting to where they are now.

It was very useful to have a few current interns or recent graduates included in the panel discussion events, alongside more senior, experienced members of EY, because they were more relatable to where we are right now. I definitely dispelled some myths or preconceptions I previously had about this sector.

It was super great and informative having interns closer to my age and women to talk to because they allowed me to understand the people culture. This helped to debunk some myths and worries I had about the support giving to women (particularly through career and family) as well as development in the company.

The insight was truly an insight! Of course there is a long way to go, but I’ve definitely discovered many possible avenues that I had no idea previously existed, and made me want to get to know some other possible paths in the tech sector, such as cyber securities etc.

I was not paid or reimbursed personally, because I had a reasonable commute into the centre. However, I am aware that the firm is covering all the appropriate travel fees for others with a longer journey. They also provided all the meals and offered accommodation nearby for those who required it.

We had a social evening out at a very fun venue, with a number of EY employees present, so were able to network in a more relaxed atmosphere. Several hosts were all present during the days to speak with us and there were plenty of breaks to facilitate networking throughout.

Really good organization of people from all different businesses and levels of seniority. We networked throughout with a range of people.

There are many opportunities and the firm does support following your interests.

I would definitely recommend this insight programme as it’s really given me more knowledge of a somewhat daunting field.