Business Academy apprentice Review

The activities and work done from day to day varied greatly, with there being tasks set for all interns such as virtual learning on soft skills such as business writing and presentation skill. However, individual experiences varied greatly as interns are placed with buddies in a team, usually working with the people in this team. I went to a number of meetings both internal and at client sites, this was definitely a high point. We were also told on the Monday that we were to make a presentation on our week and a specific, technical area of tax which interested us (if you had chosen to go into tax).

The virtual learning provided, which gives interns a base level of knowledge on business writing, presentation skills, emotional resilience, networking and developing a personal brand. However, the skills which were learnt through the week in terms of organising meetings with colleagues, real-life networking with people of all levels in the firm, writing emails and most importantly being proactive where possible. Further to this, I also learnt more about EY. The values promoted, the structure of teams and the opportunities available to me.

I would really recommend this programme, I wouldn't be lying if I say that I enjoyed all of my time at EY. The culture at EY is really welcoming and inclusive to all, on the first day with the team I was sitting with, I was introduced to all the members of the team. Everyone from those currently completing the School Leavers Program all the way up to partners in the firm were extremely willing to offer help, advice and work for me to do. I found this very refreshing as is a testament to the values and staff at EY.

Going back to my previous point, I felt extremely valued in the team as everyone was welcoming, kind and willing to help. I was trusted on Wednesday to go to a client meeting in their London offices, I really enjoyed this experience and was surprised I was trusted to go to a face-to-face client meeting.

There was always something to do, even if my team had nothing for me to do, I could complete the online virtual learning sections, prepare for the presentation and research a technical area of tax of my choice. When I arrived on the first day I was introduced to my councillor and buddy. This system is excellent as it means there’s always someone to speak to if you need some advice or want to arrange a catch-up. This enabled me to seek assistance if I had little work to do.

As this was a week-long internship, no official training was offered apart from the online virtual learning sessions, which were accessible for all levels and useful throughout the week. However, when speaking to people on the graduate and SLP scheme and those who had gained their professional qualifications at EY, they told me of the support available to them. When I was in the team I saw partners go and explain some concepts to colleagues who were revising for their professional qualifications. This makes me think that the support offered is of a high quality, after all, it is in EY’s best interest that employees pass their qualifications.

As I mentioned before, the councillor and buddy system allows for there a point of contact whenever necessary, meaning support is available when necessary. What surprised me was the fact that people were really willing and eager to offer support and guidance. It’s fair to say that EY gave those on the program the tools and ability to make a success of this week, it was down to the efforts of individuals to succeed.

Being work experience, I wasn’t expecting to be paid, therefore any money was a complete bonus. I received the money on the morning of the last day into my bank account. The hourly rate was more than minimum wage and easily covered transport, food and other costs incurred throughout the week.

Again, as this was a week-long work experience program, I wasn't able to experience any out-of-work activities, but I was told by colleagues that when they first joined EY, there were many opportunities to meet the others in their intake over a drink for example. There are also opportunities for secondment for example.

Yes

This program is an amazing opportunity for those who are considering a job in the professional services as it combines on the job experience with networking, skills sessions and a trial of what a working life is really like. furthermore, if the people you have been working for and the talent team are impressed with your performance, you may be offered a fast-tracked partner interview for the Business Apprenticeship, bypassing several other application processes. I cannot emphasise enough how enjoyable the week was and I am sure that I will keep in contact with the people I met throughout the week.

Apply as early as possible, it shows that you are proactive and eager to take the opportunity. I would also recommend practising the online assessment before doing the real ones, as you will be familiar to an extent with the questions that will be asked and how to get to the answers. Furthermore, it is essential that you do an adequate amount of preparation for the telephone interview.