Indirect Tax Intern Review

I am given tasks to be completed to help the indirect tax team. These tasks are a range of things, such as sorting out figures in a spreadsheet to determine how much VAT is recoverable and doing research for mangers on relevant legal cases in this field. I also have two case studies which involve researching a client I have worked with and discussing how I would approach a meeting with them, and then presenting this information both in the written form and presenting to a group.

I have become better at communicating with others, as my team is very friendly and this encourages me to ask if I ever have any questions. I have improved my skills on excel, such as presenting information in the most appropriate and easy to understand way. There have been lots of opportunities to network, particularly with other interns, and I have enjoyed taking advantage of this to improve my networking skills and expand my network.

I was responsible for taking minutes during a client meeting which I felt was a responsible job as I had to ensure their accuracy to make sure everyone could keep track of what happened during the meeting. I also had to research legal cases for a senior manager to allow him to advise a client more effectively. I felt responsibility when engaging in this task as the conclusions I draw from my research could have a bearing on how a client will proceed.

I was supported very effectively by my team during this internship. This included regularly checking in with me that I had things to do and that I knew what I was doing. Also, while completing tasks, colleagues made it very clear to just ask if I had any questions at all. This made me feel supported as I knew I would not be in a position where I did not know what to do and there was no one I could go to for help.

The culture is one of collaboration. This is demonstrated by the way people are very friendly to one another in the office and regularly go over to each other to check in. Also, there is a culture of working how you want to best suit you, such as working from home or in the office, and being able to have flexible hours as required. There is a culture of supporting one another if someone has a lot on their plate.

I have enjoyed my placement very much. In indirect tax, we have had three 'away days' which have involved going to Birmingham, Manchester and London which have been fun as they included a social after each one which gave the opportunity to network with other interns from across the UK offices. Also, the work has been challenging and enjoyable, and I have liked the feeling of improving as I get to grips with each task.

Yes

I would say to throw yourself into it if you get there, as there are many opportunities to socialise and meet other people from around the firm. Also, I would say to learn as much as you can while with EY, as there are many knowledgeable people in the firm from which lots can be learnt. Finally, I would just say to try and enjoy it as best you can, as it is over very quickly, and also because if you're enjoying it you are more likely to engage with the tasks and with the others around you, getting the most out of the experience.