Business Academy Student Review

On the Business Academy I have been shadowing various EY employees in different sectors of indirect tax, and seeing what they do on a day to day basis. I have also completed some work for them, such as research tasks, invoice checking, and schedule creating. I have sat in on some client calls, which were very interesting.

Throughout this week I have learnt a great deal about tax, whereas before I knew nothing. This week has also allowed me to develop my confidence and networking skills as I have had to talk to people of all ages and positions within the firm. Time management has also been extremely important.

I have really enjoyed this programme! Everyone I have met has been friendly, welcoming, and willing to teach me and help me learn. The work culture at EY is fantastic and I could definitely see myself working here in the future. My expectations were exceeded and I have had a great week.

I have felt valued by EY due to the level of care provided. The fact that I have been able to complete some work that will be used has made me feel valued and it is nice to be helpful rather than just completing tasks for the sake of it, and so that really boosted the experience.

Despite it being the first year of the Business Academy, this week ahs been very well organised. I have always had things to keep me busy, as well as time to complete the work I have been set by the Academy leaders. This may be particularly down to my counsellor who arranged a great and varied week of work for me.

My counsellor has been excellent, often catching up with me to make sure that I am ok. The virtual learning sessions have been very helpful and prepared me well for the week, my presentation, and also leading forward into the future. I feel very well supported and trained, which has helped my confidence.

I have received a lot of support from my counsellor, my buddy, the people I have been shadowing, and other EY personnel. Everyone is willing to help me and answer any questions that I have, and so I have not felt at all lost or thrown in. I have to have independence, but there is a great support system behind me.

The salary is great and covers all my travel expenses, which are fairly large considering that I live in Salisbury, in Wiltshire. I applied to this programme for the experience it offers rather than the money I'm paid. The gift bags were very generous and we have had all our needs met very well.

Outside of working, I have been able to have lunch with various EY personnel. This has allowed me to get to know people and learn a lot of the wider picture of EY, which is really helpful. Going out to lunch with my counsellor and the other students was nice to get to know them and to feel more comfortable and settle in well on my first day.

Yes

This week has been a great experience, in my case confirming that I am suited to such a workplace. However, I think it would be helpful to anyone. EY is such a lovely company to work in and it has such a great atmosphere, so I think anyone would fit in well so long as they are willing to engage and learn.

Just go for it. Try your best, even if you aren't sure, because you will likely have a great time and gain some wonderful experiences. It really helps with the future. The application isn't too bad, and although the phone interview is stressful, just keep talking and you'll get through it, and probably be surprised by the positive feedback - I was!