Spring intern Review

Overview of what a career in assurance looks like whilst championing the importance of diversity and inclusivity. • Enthusiastically contributed to a mock case study of assurance. Conducted a PESTLE Analysis as an audit team of our company, CarCO, to understand the industry and factors inhibiting business growth. • Discussed various internal processes that make businesses function, stock process, payroll and financial reporting information. Assessed risk factors in such processes and advised on potential controls to help mitigate risks.

Yes, I have learnt the importance of networking particularly when attempting to begin a career, whatever it may be. Networking includes reaching out to employees via LinkedIn or email, but it also means retaining contact over a sustained period of time. I have also learnt the importance of communication skills since when we were put in breakout rooms for PESTLE analysis, we had to effectively communicate our ideas to one another in an accessible manner. This also required listening to other's idea and responding with suggestions or comments.

It was extremely eye opening since at first glance assurance looks like a puzzling title. It was not something I had come across before but I was interested in a career in the financial services so programme seemed like a good opportunity. To then learn about this industry and how it is situated in the broader company, was hugely useful. I didn't just get an insight into assurance, rather I was able to gain an insight into assurance at EY exclusively.

One thing that really struck out to me was the diversity and inclusion emphasis. This is a workplace that values difference for what its worth and what it can contribute. This is distinct to many other employers who sort of sideline the importance of diversity and inclusion. Everyone seemed really welcome, when asking questions to EY employees, they were more than willing to help. They were proactive and sent a few calls around as well as additional emails to see if we would be attending and if all was okay.

It was extremely enjoyable and I would definitely recommend the programme to friends and family. Since it was only a day, it wasn't possible to teach everything there is to know about assurance. Nonetheless, the graduate recruitment team done a good job in ensuring that they really did provide a brand exposure into assurance and culture at EY. I liked how we were able to interact with other attendees despite the stress on time. It made things a little more engaging.

Yes

Tips I would give is to not neglect any part of the application process. There isn't a part of the process which I would say is more important than others, because each part could equally see you out with a rejection. Make sure you focus when completing the online tests, put your full efforts into it. They aren't trying to catch you out so come with an open, rational mind. In terms of CV, make sure it is up to date and tailored to the position you are applying to.