Sumer Intern Review

My summer internship at EY was a fantastic experience. The wide range of activities I was able to do in only a month, alongside some great people, made the experience very fulfilling and provided a brilliant platform to learn from. I developed a wide range of skills and really enjoyed the working culture at the firm. The opportunity to travel to different clients was an added bonus.

Because I aimed to learn as much as I could and aimed to complete tasks diligently and efficiently, I was able to build a strong rapport with others on my team. I feel this was only possible because everyone was very friendly and open to begin with, happily briefing me about clients and continuously setting asks while answering the numerous questions I had.

All of the managers on the different teams I was assigned to were extremely supportive by providing advice on the project or task at hand, as well as general advice on the firm, profession and industry which included their personal experiences. Even if something required clarification multiple times, everyone was happy to help.

I was always busy and doing things but never felt under pressure or strained. When I was unable to stay till late while other colleagues were doing so, due to personal commitments, My manager was happy to let me leave. When unassigned to any work, I had the chance to complete other general tasks for the programme.

I was given several different kinds of responsibilities which suited my current knowledge and skill set. These responsibilities were straightforward, but at the same time challenging enough to help me learn new things and develop my skills in several areas. I was also entrusted to complete work for previous projects and submit important requests for information from clients.

I regard the skills I developed as essential skills for the world of work. These included presentation skills, business writing and professional communication as well as IT through several modes of delivery. This included the development of skills through hands-on experience as well as through the vast knowledge available on online resources, such as web-learning modules for me to do in any downtime I had.

The atmosphere in the office was focused, and calm. The office had an open plan structure which made it comfortable to work in. There was access to modern facilities and technology which made it stimulating as well. All the people in the office were friendly and there was also a free coffee machine.

The internship was organised well, with no unnecessary time being wasted on events such as induction or socials. The complexity of the tasks I was assigned to was balanced and I always felt clear as to how far I have reached and how much time is remaining. There were also weekly catch up emails and regular counselling sessions provided.

The firm has provided me with a one-year placement as well as a bursary so I do feel like I have been invested in. On the internship, I was able to travel to another city for work and while doing so my meals, travel and accommodation were all provided. I was also provided tutorial sessions on using key platforms and technology at the firm.

The firm is growing larger at a faster and faster rate. I already have an industrial placement confirmed after a year and the reputation of the firm in the industry is also very respected. Those who have been at the firm for several years now have also progressed well in a reasonable amount of time.

I lived in Birmingham City Centre, so the cost of food and travel was as expensive as any City Centre location. However, due to the timing of the internship, rent was quite reasonable. Socialising was reasonable as well but not as affordable as what some may be used to in other locations.

We were offered the chance to get involved in sports and socials outside work. There was also the chance to team up with other interns across different offices for charity fundraising. In addition to this, there were many employee networks I could join, through which there are many activities to engage in.