Associate Review

On a general level, I work in Audit and more specifically the Banking and Capital Markets sector. Day to day, my role as a first year involves sitting with the client and understanding how parts of the business works, confirming balances and testing specific items and lines on the financial statements.

My role has helped me develop so many skills relating to every day Audit tasks and also more generally: my business traits. For example I can use Excel more and more confidently, but also my communication skills with the client in particular have improved a lot already. Working with a team across the UK has also helped.

The programme has developed over the years into what is now a really well put together course. I feel like I am a full member of EY (which I am), rather than just a new, unqualified apprentice. Although the work is difficult and hours much longer than I initially realised, I can be rewarding and I enjoy the lifestyle which surrounds it.

Very well organised with help from all over the business if needed. This includes a 'buddy' who is usually in the same position but one year more experienced. The apprenticeship team are also helpful for any help needed related to the programme. The only negative I'd say is how spread out the exams are but coming straight from school, it allows us time to prepare.

As mentioned before, we are assigned a buddy who is in an ideal position to help us when first joining the firm. Day-to-day, the people in your team will be the main point of contact and help you develop the most. From HR to IT, everyone is fully supportive of you,

Kaplan are a really good company and the teacher I had was very interactive. There is a dedicated team within the company to help with any problems, such as exam resitting. Course material is available in many different material versions to make revising a lot more convenient when working the hours we do.

I think that it may be the other way round at the moment, where day-to-day practises will help me with my studies. I have only currently had one week of college, so when I return for my exams I know I'll be able to use what I have learnt at EY.

We receive tailored emails all the time about the variety of clubs and activities on offer. I am personally fairly sporty and have seen there is a team for every sport, which normally competes in a league with other companies, which is a good idea. Individual client teams hold socials all the time which gives you something to look forward to.

Yes

Rewarding role despite the challenges. Must be prepared for the long hours as half a year in have not worked a 35 hour week as contracted. This is expected within this industry however. The role and company provides many opportunities, for example working away on a client and experiences another part of the country. Hard work is definitely noticed at EY.

The partner interview is the easiest and best part of the process. If you be yourself then you'll get the job 100% if it's meant to be and they take a liking to you. Make sure you seem confident at the assessment centre but are willing to help and listen to others. And take the online tests seriously as I remember them being quite difficult!