Workforce Advisory (PAS) Summer Intern Review

Although the internship was not what I had anticipated when first applying, EY and its student recruitment team put so much effort into ensuring that the summer interns still had a great experience. It was packed with panel discussions, learning sessions and networking opportunities. I was able to get a deep insight into EY and its culture and I thoroughly enjoyed the week.

The amount of work that had clearly gone into organising the week was evident from the start. All those involved at EY had clearly invested so much time into ensuring that we still had a great experience which really highlighted how much EY values their interns. Further, when presenting on a case-study at the end of the week we were able to get feedback and advice from EY colleagues which was both useful and made us feel valued.

During the week we were assigned a buddy who was there to answer any questions we had and to tell us more about their experiences. I found this incredibly useful and my buddy was so enthusiastic and knowledgeable when answering all of my questions. During the week we were also able to work on a case-study in groups. Each group was assigned a mentor who provided my group with guidance on areas we had less experience with and importantly, the encouragement to be confident when delivering our presentation.

Each day was packed with different sessions, ranging from panel discussions, buddy q&a's and learning development sessions from guest speakers. Although the agenda was very busy, there were more than enough comfort breaks during the day to ensure that we were not overwhelmed with the amount of information being received.

Unfortunately we were not able to be given any responsibility during the internship due its brevity. This being said, we were given a group case-study to work on throughout the week. At the end of the week each group was given the opportunity to present to other interns as well as EY people so I still felt as though we had made a contribution.

Throughout the week we had guest speakers lead sessions on skills such as time-management and presentations. The sessions were incredibly stimulating and I was able to develop my existing skills, and I believe the tips and advice given will be particularly useful when returning to university. I was also able to learn how to be more mindful, something I hope to apply to everyday life as well as my studies and future career.

Unfortunately we were not able to be in the office. This said, all of the student recruitment team were enthusiastic and friendly throughout the week. This helped to create a really engaging, positive atmosphere which translated virtually. There were lots of interactive elements built in during the week which also helped to create a very dynamic atmosphere.

I found the internship to be very well set up. Although it was reduced to one week, it was packed with lots of different sessions and activities which meant it was a really rewarding week. Due to its virtual nature, there were inevitably some tech issues but these were all resolved very quickly by the student recruitment team who were fantastic in ensuring it ran so smoothly!

Throughout the week we were able to take part in several learning and development sessions led by guest speakers from all areas of EY. These sessions focused on vital skills such as time-management, prioritisation and presenting and all of the speakers were incredibly engaging and eager to answer all questions.

Throughout the week I was able to gain a much deeper insight into EY and its culture. I was blown away by how much EY invests in its people and all of the training and development opportunities available. This really demonstrated how much EY values its people. Additionally, all of the EY people were so enthusiastic and friendly and I was struck by the strong sense of community EY fosters, and it is something I hope to continue to be part of going forwards.

Due to the virtual nature of the placement I was not able to interact physically with any of the other summer interns.

As the internship was completely virtual there was no need to travel to the physical office in London. This meant that I incurred no costs as a result of the experience.

Due to the virtual nature of the internship, unfortunately we did not get to experience the nightlife.

Unfortunately we did not have a chance to get involved in any activities outside of the virtual internship during the week. However, there was the opportunity to become a brand ambassador for EY following the internship. This role will enable me to continue to participate in EY-led events and remain engaged with EY and its people during my last year at University.