FS Assurance Intern Review

Over the course of the internship, we carried out a variety of tasks. This included working as a group on a case study which was assigned to us by Seniors within the business. We assessed the impact COVID-19 has had on businesses, their finances and how this would affect the audits EY employees undertake. This all culminated in a final group presentation, which was delivered to the Senior. In addition, we attended interactive Q&As from key members of the business and had external speakers, such as Dr Alex George speak about wellbeing and its importance in the workplace. The Talent team hosted many of the events, and helped facilitate fun sessions, which included watching a magician live and going around the world virtually.

Yes, we were given loads of talks from both internal & external presenters. These included: how to deliver engaging presentations; how to display emotional intelligence; how to be resilient to challenging circumstances at work; how to approach meeting people inside the business as well as meeting external clients; how to develop a personal brand and what business etiquette is both in person and over the internet. Additionally, the case study work gave us an insight into our service lines day to day operations. We analysed financial statements, Auditing Team Planning Events and were guided by mentors to help us decipher and present this information in a coherent way.

No, as interns we were not given any responsibility within the business. I believe this was because the internship was only over two weeks and given that it was virtual, interacting with active auditing teams would have been very difficult. Instead EY's case study was designed to emulate what working within the firm would be like. Fortunately, we were able to interact with many people across the business, from current graduate employees to Senior Managing Partners. This exposure, gave a real insight into the culture at EY.

We were supported throughout the internship. The Student Talent Acquisition Team, setup an email address that we had access to, which allowed us to voice any concerns we had throughout the two weeks. The internship was online, so inevitably there were connection issues and technical difficulties at moments during the two weeks. However, the team were on hand to fix these issues and reacted promptly if we needed to switch to use a different platform for any parts of the internship.

The culture is what distinguishes EY from the other professional services firms. Every firm likes to believe their culture is the best, however at EY what they say is true. Every person we had the opportunity to interact with embodied the NextWave ambition the firm has. Their employees were helpful and genuinely wanted to see the best in myself and the other interns around me. EY is a firm invested in its people. Throughout the internship we were given the same soft skills training as the Managing Partners. When a firm is this inclusive about the culture and habits it wants running through the entire organisation, there is a productive and positive atmosphere.

Although it was only for 2 weeks and although it was online, I have had the most enjoyable time. The internship was tough and challenging academically at times, yet also inclusive and fun at other times. No two days were the same and the people we met were both helpful and interesting. I really feel I have an understanding of what it would be like to work at EY having completed the internship. This was an extremely positive experience and I hope to move onto the graduate scheme.

Yes

Obtaining an internship/placement at any firm is incredibly tough. However, to be a successful candidate in the EY process you have to do your research. Explore the service line you wish to join and really think about why it is you want to work there. Be curious, about what EY are doing in the wider society, EY Foundation and the industry leading people who are driving forward EY's D&I commitments. At the assessment centre, be open to chat and collaborative. EY's business centres around people and their culture is what sets them apart, make sure you practice your business soft skills and show your skills throughout the application process. Do not be disheartened if you do not get in, places are fiercely competitive and sometimes you just need a little bit of luck.