Discover EY - Digital Disruption participant Review

I found the programme very interactive and we were allowed to network with many different staff across the firm, in different divisions and at different seniority levels. It was very well-organised as it had a mix of introductory talks, panel discussions in which we could ask any questions but also an interactive hackathon and a group project in which we developed detailed solutions to a problem and gave suggestions to improve business practices of clients respectively. It was clear that the firm values innovation and collaboration a lot.

Programme participants are treated well throughout he process, starting from the point at which we were offered a place. We received clear directions as to what to prepare before the programme. During the programme, we had senior business leaders and graduates interacting with us, which shows the firm’s devotion to the programme. The chance to play golf indoors with current employees was a great way to socialise as it was fun and graduates were very willing to share their experiences. I feel highly valued by EY.

We were given insightful tips about the recruitment process and going into the workplace after graduation. The panel discussion gave us a comprehensive understanding as it featured senior leaders and graduates at different levels and in different teams, so we had a good opportunity to learn about what to prepare for a role in each team, what the work there entails and which we would likely find interesting. This allowed us to research more into prospective roles accordingly.

Technological disruption is relevant to every single part of our society. In the programme, we were given concise and clear introductions to different forms of technology and how they may be applied in different segments of society and the business world. This complements my study of economics because the future of work, crytocurrencies are definitely very relevant hot topics in the field right now. This has even more implications beyond my degree because these disruptions could present many opportunities but also risks to ourselves. I got a better idea of how I might want to respond to such changes because of the increased awareness after the programme.

The insight is very well structured as it had a balanced mix of talks, panel discussions and interactive group work and demonstrations of the EYX, the technology R&D division of the firm. In particular, the hackathon is well organised in that we were given clear directions on which to act upon - generate ideas, improve on them, more thinking and discussing and the preparing for the final presentation. I feel that it could be even better if we had more opportunities to network with current staff and graduates in between the sessions, and it would be great if there was a even more competitive atmosphere in the hackathon (asking other groups on their plans, wider involvement in the judging process).

Fellow participants were very willing to ask questions to every presentation / panel discussion in the programme. We also networked very well in the Junkyard Golf where we had leisure while learning more about each other, and getting a sense of the experiences of current staff. Recruitment team was friendly and helped to deliver the programme as interactive as possible, with an energised atmosphere which made everyone motivated.

In terms of training, I think the most helpful sessions were the hackathon and recruitment process talk. The hackathon developed my ability to think quickly and pitch my ideas in a clear and concise manner. It also helped me cultivate confidence while presenting to senior leaders, staff and peers. The recruitment process equipped me with a better understanding of what I need to do to know myself better - strengths & weaknesses, character, interests. I wish there could be rather small group discussions focused on our career development if manpower and time allowed.

The programme gave me detailed insights into the experiences and day-to-day work of staff at the firm. This was achieved through panel discussions, networking sessions and presentations. I did learn about EY’s expectations of employees, what attitudes successful employees possess, and most importantly the many opportunities available for interns, graduates and everyone across the firm if they could demonstrate interests or skills in a specific area.

The best way to learn about a company’s culture is by interacting with staff in different teams and at different levels. The networking sessions and panel discussion did give me insights into EY’s collaborative and innovative culture, and how this, along with its integrated business model differs itself from other firms with a similar focus.

The two day programme gave me detailed insights into the different roles at the EY, what the responsibilities and distinctive focuses of different teams are. Based on these, I’m able to develop a better understanding of what roles interest me and how I could prepare for a career in these fields accordingly.

I did not have to be reimbursed because the place of the event was close to my accommodation. Food was provided throughout the 2-day programme, so it didn’t add to the burden of the student budget. I was aware that friends from far away places had their transportation and accommodation reimbursed.

Networking events were very well organised in that they were unique. While most insight programmes I’ve been to have networking in the form of drinks, EY has broken this tradition - adhering well to the theme of disruption - by bringing us to junkyard golf. It made it much more relaxing and we were able to blend in well by playing golf with them, while learning about the company’s culture and their experiences.

The major networking event was the golf night mentioned above. Among programme participants, we had great times networking with each other as well in breaks in between the sessions and after the days. I believe the socialising element was strong and sufficient for a two day event, and many of us will have fresh memories of the programme as we’ve been through collaborative projects together as well during the programme.

We learnt about the many opportunities to engage in out-of-work activities like starting up music, sports teams and engaging in volunteering projects. This was very interesting for me as I liked the idea that work life balance could be achieved pretty well for the professionals at the firm, who I previously thought would only concentrate on work. The opportunity to engage in meaningful community projects was certainly an attractive point for me.

Sure. It was very well organised, throughout the different stages, from recruitment to the actual programme itself. It gives a detailed overview of the culture and roles within the firm, but it also equips me with transferable skills which would come in handy no matter which career I pursue in the future.