Smart futures intern Review

I am an intern on the EY SmartFutures programme. During the first week, we were completing our learning logs in order to achieve our CMI Level 2 qualification in Leadership. The second week, we were based at EY Canary Wharf doing our business experience, paired with 'buddies' from different industries.

I have developed so many skills over my time at EY. Not only have I had my chance to really develop my communication skills with a diverse range of people of a range of ages and backgrounds, I have also gotten the chance to increase my confidence in terms of meeting new people and presenting in front of others, which I was not previously very comfortable with. I have obviously also had the chance to work towards the CMI qualification.

I have really enjoyed the EY programme! I have not only enjoyed the work and professional aspect of it, but also the social side of the programme. I have gotten the chance to meet so many new friends and network with such a range of professionals.

I feel that, despite the fact that I am only a 17 year old intern, everyone at EY makes you feel very valued and treats you as an equal. During the business experience week everyone was so inclusive of us and embraced us into their teams.

The programme is so well organised. There is a clear plan to follow everyday and everything runs so smoothly. There are always friendly and clear coordinators that are so helpful and willing to give advice, and there is always someone to talk to if you are unsure about anything or need some advice.

Our programme coordinators are so helpful. Victoria and Anu as the course organisers are really helpful and clear, and communicate very well with us. As before mentioned, all of the external coordinators are equally as brilliant.

During the business week, the buddies and Ey staff members were so supportive and willing to involve us in their work and find work for us to do.

I think that the salary that we are paid is very fair and more than enough to cover the costs of travel and lunch, as well as additional effort.

Yes, they are very clear about the opportunities available to us after we finish the work experience, such as the school leavers programme, graduate scheme and scholarship.

Yes

Most definitely! I had an absolutely amazing time, learnt so much and made so many new friends and new relationships with professional people.

Come in with an open mind and be confident. Really embrace all of the tasks, get stuck in with all of the work and really try to network with new people and make new friends - you will meet some fascinating people!