Actuarial Intern Review

I really felt welcomed within the team, and included. The work that I got given to do was of great variety and a good level of difficulty. I really enjoyed the overall experience and I would recommend it.

All my colleagues had time for me, and they would explain many concepts to me which to them probably seem really trivial. I was invited to socials and lunches with them and they really included me. They also listened to my opinions which made me feel valued

My counsellor (manager) was changed during my internship as she went on annual leave, but the transition was really smooth. They helped me to complete some tasks, and asked people to set up meetings for me so I could get a greater insight into the firm. The only reason this isn't a 10 is because my counsellor did change, and maybe forward planning next time would make it smoother.

At the beginning, it was slightly slow but soon after the team were keen to include me on projects. You had to be proactive and look for work at the start but by the end the work was coming to you. I know people's experiences throughout the firm differed though.

Not much to start, although the longer I was there the more responsibility I got. Although all my email etc. were not directly allowed to be sent to clients, this is the same process for Level 1s in the firm, so I had no less responsibility than them in that respect. Some members of staff are better at giving you more responsibility than others, and some just like to give you admin.

The business skills that I learnt will help me beyond. I have also learnt to become more disciplined which will help me in my degree studies. I really think that this has helped me to develop as a person.

My office was very relaxed with hot desks, so you could be sitting next to any level of seniority. This was exciting as you felt very valued. The atmosphere in the office is relaxed yet hard working, with there being a small drinks event when another employee got a promotion. I really enjoyed the office atmosphere.

Really well set up, the first few induction days were seamless. The only improvement was that maybe our buddy and counsellor could have emailed us slightly before by way of introduction. Apart from that it was perfect.

My team were extremely helpful in this aspect. I have set my goals on the first day in the office and the team (my counselor in particular) ensured that I was meeting them throughout my time there. I also had a chance to shadow a partner for a day, and work in a different service line for a day as well, to get broader exposure to the different types of work and clients.

Given the chance, I would definitely like to go back to EY. I can't imagine a place where I would get a broader exposure to the variety of clients and projects available here. And the people are so friendly, which I think is really important!

Definitely. We met up for lunch most days (depending on how busy everyone was with work), although lack of a canteen in our office made it a little difficult at times. We also had a welcome dinner on our first day in the office, and a farewell dinner / Fringe festival night out on the last day.

Edinburgh can be really expensive over festival time (that is August), but my internship took place over July mostly. Since I live locally the cost of living didn't bother me much.

The nightlife in Edinburgh is really amazing. But its a bit expensive. So you have to be a bit careful when you spend.

There are a few sports clubs, e.g. running. There were also opportunities to get involved with corporate and social responsibility (CSR) activities - in fact the interns organised a bake sale / dress down day / raffle in the office.