Associate Review

I am an associate in audit but I have audit and extended assurance clients. My day to day work includes client interaction and completing the audit of different accounts. I have regular internal and external meetings. I have a lot of responsibility on some of my clients and take full control of accounts. I have to lead some client meetings.

I am learning new skills every day. As well as getting my accounting qualification. EY are always open to suggestions about new training and we have set up training within our peer group for topics specific to us. We always have internal training and there are always compulsory online web based learnings to complete. I would be here all day if I explained everything I have learnt so far. I have also developed my communication skills a lot, especially with speaking to clients.

I really enjoy my programme. The people at EY are great and they cannot help you enough. Everyone understands that you are new and you will need extra coaching. They are more than happy to put in time to help you. EY has definitely met my expectation.

I feel valued when I complete good work. We have impact awards for those noticed doing something very good and I have recevied one of these.

We had a 2 day official induction and then a smaller induction within our department before starting. We haev regular training and set dates for college and exams. It is clear who to go to if we need support. We had a buddy when starting for help and also have a counsellor who is our mentor. There is no obvious heirachy in the department. You are not looked at as a 'school leaver' or 'partner' everyone is equal. The programme is very well organised and there are no unanswered questions.

We have college and revision days. We had a lot of support through college and there are people to speak to otherwise. We have an online portal to log into for revision. It is very clear that everyone is always able to help as the tutor gave us his personal email for queries outside of lessons etc.

We have support from our counsellors. They are there for help with any problems, personal or work related. Managers etc will also always be able to help you.

It is very well paid for an apprenticeship. It allows money for living and travel as well as disposable income. We also have a lot of socials that are paid for to get to know everyone in the department.

Yes, there are hundreds of different societies and sports clubs to get involved with. We have 2 days a year to use to volunteer for charities. We have our own charity, EY Foundation where they hold many events. I took part in a trek across the Sahara Desert for it. We have lots of department socials and events.

Yes

The people here are amazing, everyone is so friendly and cannot help you enough. I have really enjoyed my time here so far. I am getting a really good qualification that is the same level as a masters degree but without the student fees and getting paid at the same time. I am still getting the social side of uni as well.

EY care a lot about your personality and skills rather than qualifications. Be true about who you are as it will determine whether you fit in at EY and enjoy your time here. Be confident in the assessment centres but not overpowering. You have to be a true team player.