FS Assurance Intern Review

Each day was different and included various tasks assisting the audit team. This would be different depending on the stage of the audit engagement, such as the planning stage. I would complete forms, take notes on client calls, check and summarise documents, prepare and update reports, perform reconciliations and document evidence. We had weekly 'Certificate Learning' sessions where we would learn about leadership to develop our skills and gain a qualification as part of our internship. I also had daily catch-up calls with my team

I was able to develop my teamworking skills by working with colleagues in offices all over the UK on engagements as well as being a part of the 'team' of interns in organising a fundraiser in the office. I was also able to develop my communication skills from attending meetings with colleagues and clients. I developed my organisation skills as we had to ensure we completed work by deadlines and schedule some time for independent learning on top of our client work.

I was given some responsibility during internship as there were documents and tasks that I was solely responsible for. I had autonomy over these tasks as long as they were completed in a timely manner before they were due. However, due to the nature of audit these documents or tasks would need to be reviewed by several people once I had completed them, but this was similar for other colleagues regardless of whether they were an intern or associate etc.

I received a lot of support and guidance, when I needed it, during my internship. Everyone I worked with was always more than happy to answer any questions or queries I had regarding the work. I was always assured that there were no stupid questions and we were not expected to know everything. Sometimes things were explained quite briefly or with an expectation of background knowledge, but colleagues were always happy to answer further questions I had.

The culture and general atmosphere was professional, but friendly. This was a nice surprise from my previous expectation of the 'Big 4'. As previously mentioned, everyone was was always more than happy to help with any queries, whether that be generally or related to my engagement. Everyone was helpful and welcoming. Everyone was quite sociable at lunch times and out of work, and we would get to meet people from different parts of the office. We had events in London for all UK interns at the start and end of our internship. We also took part in a CSR day, helping the 'Trees for Cities' charity while in London. We also organised fundraisers for the EY Foundation. In terms of diversity, there are various networks you can join in EY.

I thoroughly enjoyed my internship, it was a positive and interesting experience. Although, due to the length of the internship, we were not able to do as much work as I would have perhaps liked, I still gained valuable experience, skills and knowledge from the engagements I worked on and colleagues I worked with. I enjoyed being able to network with EY staff, including partners and people from other departments, as well as other interns over the course of my internship.

Yes

Make the most of the opportunity as you get out what you put in. It is definitely worth applying as it will be valuable experience for your career and personal development. The application process is fairly structured and you are given a lot of guidance, just make sure you give yourself time to sit down and do the tests uninterrupted. For the assessment day ensure you are vocal and confident. Don't be scared of the company because it is part of the 'Big 4'.