FSO Tax Intern Review

I thoroughly enjoyed the insight as everyone was approachable and I had the ability to shadow colleagues of different levels allowing me to see the potential career progression in EY. It is most definitely a firm that is people orientated and therefore I received huge amount of support to help me integrate within the firm for the week.

Despite it being only one week I had to opportunity to discuss with juniors, seniors and partners. They constantly asked my opinions on things. I a particularly admired the constant explanation of topics I didn't understand in order to make me feel included during client meetings. I was assigned projects immediately showing that they valued my ability to learn quickly.

The buddy and mentor system is incredibly effective as there were constantly available to guide me and help me with tasks that I did not understand. Every morning I would have a catch up with my buddy in order to make sure that I was aware of the daily timetable and if there was anything I especially wanted to do.

The way EY is structured in terms of culture is very similar to university therefore the skills I learned here were very applicable to the skills I need at university in terms of time management during school projects, analytical skills which I would need when simulating an extensive amount of information in an exam question.

The insight was structured but also gave me the freedom to tailor the week to the goals that I had set whether it is shadow more client meetings or meet people from different divisions. I liked the flexibility yet there was always something for me to do hence why I felt useful.

EY has an incredibly inclusive nature since everyone is approachable and if you need help on something people are willing to assist or direct you to someone who can. The work-personal life balance has also contributed to the calm ambiance as everyone seems to enjoy going to work. This is definitely something I would want immerse into.

They gave us a learning journal and asked at the start of the week what our goals were and what we seek to gain from the internship, from this they were able to tailor the week in order to help us achieve this and personally develop skills and knowledge of the service line.

Through the client meetings, discussions and projects I was able to get a detailed insight into the day to day operations within the tax service line. I was able to read tax reviews and get and explanation of what the reports explained and the calculations were achieved. I also saw an exemplar Tax Audit Review which requires employees to analyse the calculations that contribute to the overarching corporation tax return. With this EY are able conclude that the tax figures present in the income statement and trial balance provided by their client is materially correct for year-end reporting purposes. This was insightful as I realised that in their role the activities the do vary from compliance, audit and advisory

I was introduced to the director of the Women's Network and people who have a high influence on the culture of EY through pastoral care for graduate and level 1 employees. Everyone that I spoke to had a unanimous perception that the culture with EY is one of the best and I would agree.

It was very valuable as now I am considering venturing into Tax after getting a glimpse of what the role entails and the skills required. Overall, this experience has been thoroughly rewarding since it has not only significantly enhanced my knowledge on the tax implications firms face as a result of differing tax reforms and legislations enforced in various countries but it has also solidified my desire to work in such a ‘purpose driven, client and employee orientated’ firm.

I feel like the pay was above adequate however the support they provide and the non-wage benefits outweigh the lack of pay compared to other professional services who pay higher and that is something I prefer compared to a high pay. However with career progression the pay does become incrementally rewarding.

I had ample opportunity to network and shadow colleagues of various career levels enhanced my confidence and exposed to me flat structure within EY as everyone is very approachable regardless of whether they are a senior, junior or partner. I was introduced to many people and even in the cafeteria it was very easy to approach people.

Especially within the tax division the social event opportunities are immense and EY place a significant emphasis on improving the social culture through socials such as cake event on Fridays and drinks in the park on Thursday afternoon. This allowed me to meet various people from the division and get to know them on a personal level.

Yes I spoke to someone from Women's Network who informed me of the internal and external events they hold. Also, the firm sponsors International Women's day so many employees get involved in that. . Not only does it work to reform within the firm but also among the society through schemes such as ‘Smart Futures’ for 15-17 year-olds showcasing EY’s superior level of stewardship internally and externally.

I would most definitely recommend this insight to a friend as it is an invaluable experience and you get a first hand insight into the operations of your chosen service line. Also it a perfect opportunity to discuss will employees and discover EY’s comparative advantage within the professional services industry.