Scholar Review

I am currently at university on the Bath Assurance Scholarship scheme, which involves spending 3 years studying Accounting and Finance alongside an industrial placement and summer internship at EY. On a day-to-day basis, we have the opportunity to take part in regular student activities. I have the option to study modules which interest me, and also enjoy taking part in the sports activities present at the university. The social side is fantastic, whilst I have also had the chance to pursue other non-academic interests at university. As an intern, you are given real responsibility within the firm, although the initial phase can be tough whilst adapting to workplace environment. I was immediately assigned onto projects which I enjoyed working on, and was interacting with clients within my first week. Associates are generally responsible for carrying out a range of substantive testing whilst on projects.

I am hoping to graduate with a degree in Accounting and Finance with the relevant exemptions in order to complete the Chartered Accountancy qualifications. The training at EY is fantastic, and a much is learnt on the job as well. Managers are fantastic with investing time into trainees and are very approachable. EY Leads training online is a great tool to further enhance professional skills, and the firm also do courses such as Mental Health first aid training.

I really enjoy the scholarship scheme, since it gives a good mix of university life alongside relevant work experience. The people are really welcoming and I think the company culture at EY is hugely refreshing. The scholarship does help in terms of funding, since I was initially worried about the costs involved with university education. Also, the flexibility is great, at university we are not restricted and can actively pursue our own interest.

I feel hugely valued at EY. The managers are great and a member of HR is always at hand and willing to chat to you over coffee about anything. I particularly find the buddy scheme very valuable, since it can be daunting enter such a large organisation so it is nice to have someone able to answer your initial questions. Generally, the office is really nice and everyone is hugely generous with their time.

Induction and training is well organised, and the support is fantastic. My buddy was great in terms of setting me up with projects and settling me into the firm. The HR team are friendly and are readily available to answer queries, and the resources co-ordinators are hugely flexible and allow you to have a say in which projects to work on. Generally you get to choose the sector and office location you work in, and EY are very flexible in terms of working hours and personal commitments.

I haven't started college yet, so cannot really comment on this. Generally though, the EY Leads online training is great.

EY are great with considering personal circumstances and always have a manager available to answer anything. Personally, I have found that managers are supportive, and I have been given days off for volunteering commitments etc without fuss. Also, my buddy (assigned mentor) is always willing to answer my questions, and my careers counselor has been fantastic in terms of providing advice and support in general.

EY, similar to all Big 4 accounting firms, pay a competitive salary. Do note however, it is different to investment banking, and this is also reflected in the working hours and salary. I was working in London, and found that the salary was more than enough to pay for rent and travel, although it can be difficult waiting for the initial first payment. The scholarship funding whilst at university means that I do not have to worry about money and ensures I can focus on my degree whilst enjoying my time at Bath.

EY has many social events such as a boat ride on the Thames, which is a great way to meet people working within your departments. Also, there are many sports clubs EY offer, along with volunteering days off and university events promoting graduate jobs.

Yes

The work culture is great, everyone is willing to help out and answer your questions. It is a fantastic place to learn and develop, whilst working with the largest companies in the world. EY has many interesting projects and the work, although demanding, is very rewarding. Also, the scholarship scheme is great in providing a taste of university alongside relevant work experience.

Do as much research as possible, it really does show in the interview stage. Also, do as much practice when it comes to the online test, I was awful the first time I attempted it but gradually improved. The advice I was told, easier said than done, is to not be nervous, if you pass through all the stages it shows you're good enough to be there, so be confident and back your ability.