Smart Futures Review

I got to meet so many new and different people while carrying out team building exercises and tasks with them. I had the opportunity also to gain a management level 2 qualification. My work experience week consisted of working in finance which was great as it was really interesting and I could use the skills learned throughout the week to work

I improved my ability to speak in front of an audience as this was required when working at EY. I improve my confidence as I had to get to know new people every day. I also learned to broaden my horizons and the company really made me open my eyes to the wider working world

I really enjoyed my work experience as it offered me something new that I didn’t think I was able to do but actually was when I tried. It was a great experience and 100% worth it as I feel I have gained valuable life skills and have had the opportunity to meet a lot of new friends.

My work experience was very well organised as we always finished on time, all tasks were carried out within time limits. When going on trips to certain places timing was never an issue and we were always back in Glasgow for when we required to be back. The organisation of the trips was superb

We learned a lot about the company and it’s foundations values while working and carrying out tasks around the office. The company is a very value driven place and many of its value are seen plastered to posters all over the office, so you certainly don’t forget them

I am not going down the accounting or financial route personally, however the programmes mentoring scheme helped me decide what I wanted to do in the future regarding university or apprenticeships. This was in the form of one to one meet ups where you can discuss anything from trying to join the company full time on graduate or school leavers schemes or anything else that may be relevant to your future

Yes, we were paid a very generous rate, well above the minimum wage for our age range. Sometimes you were getting paid and you were not even In the office, for example being out on trips to meet the Edinburgh smart futures programme or client meetings on your work experience week.

Yes, many of the people on the programme I am still friends with as everyone was really my age. In regards to EY employees, everyone was really nice when speaking to you and even when back in the office for events many still remember you and stop to speak. The company has a real caring feeling about it

Yes

Such an enjoyable experience and you are earning so much experience and a valuable qualification too as well as being paid! The foundation really cares for its young people and the care does not stop after you have finished your work experience, as you may be invited to future events with your alumni

Take your time when applying and answering questions and being interviewed. The application process can seem a little bit scary but try and get a teacher or parent to help you answer the questions to really show yourself off to the company and hopefully get a place on the programme