Assurance Intern Review

There were various activities throughout the week where everyone had the ability to write how they were feeling. The quizzes and icebreakers were a great way to cool off. Each staff member had a different story about working at EY and apprentices all the way to senior managers were featured. The group project was really exciting and really showed what assurance is all about. It was perfect for those who did not have an accounting and finance background.

I felt really valued because no matter what I asked there was always an attempt to answer my questions and help me. The talk about diversity and inclusion really made me feel valued since it emphasised how the firm tries to accommodate for every background, religion and race. The employees at EY actively spoke to everyone equally. Additionally, I felt valued in my team because everyone's opinion was heard and discussed. A part of everyone's ideas appeared in the final presentation.

We received a fair amount of guidance during the internship. As I mentioned, we could ask anyone questions at any point. When there were technical issues the staff would reply straight away either through email or Microsoft teams. The organisers were very understanding when someone couldn't access something due to connection and tried their best to make everyone included. The mentor for our teach was very useful too as he listened to our discussions and gave advice and tips as to where we could improve.

Although I won't be able to use any of the accounting aspects in my degree, the ability to teamwork, network and speak up will definitely be useful, especially in seminars. However, the recap on assurance will be very beneficial to me for continuing to develop my knowledge around the subject and the case study has revealed which skills I should focus on to become a successful auditor. Many links were provided which I will check out and see how they can improve my day to day life (ie. health and mindfulness).

The experience was really well structured, with specific timings for each section of the day. The events generally started on time and enough time was given to log on and change links. I liked how some sessions were like lectures whilst others were more interactive with an opportunity to ask questions, brainstorm and network. I do wish there were more opportunities to do more assurance linked work but considering the circumstances the event was really well organised.

The general atmosphere was really good. Every single day the organisers would check in to see how we were feeling and asking our views on what we enjoyed/ were looking forward to the most. No one was rude or uncooperative which was great. I think events like the talk on mindfulness and health were really important as they gave a platform for candidates to discuss their worries and concerns. I hope that in the future there will be more opportunities to meet more candidates as this will definitely provide an even better atmosphere.

The firm definitely invests in each person. They are willing to provide you with all the neccesary training for the job and ensure that there is an entire network to support you in terms of tutors, coaches and mentors. Additionally, the firm makes sure you can develop holistic skills and find topics that interest you. I really appreciate their approach and think they are doing as much as possible for candidates to feel included and motivated.

To some extent it did, through the team exercise. However, I do wish there were more opportunities for this.