Business Academy Intern Review

Throughout the work experience we participated in a range of activities, these included talks from partners within the firm, interactive icebreakers and at one point a kahoot to provide an energiser. We also took part in multiple panel sessions with current business apprentices within EY, as well as a case study where we were allocated an amount of time to research our case study and make notes, which was followed up with a group discussion. Also, at any point throughout the programme we were able to submit questions using the chat box tool.

I believe I gained a plethora of valuable skills from the learning sessions hosted on the programme. These included presentation skills such as how to create a professional presentation, write formal emails to your colleagues and also how to approach and prepare for public speaking/presentation. We also participated in a session on diversity and inclusiveness, learning the importance of acknowledging other people's traits, lifestyles and cultures within a working environment. Moreover, the case study session allowed us to develop our research/planning skills, as well as communication in the group discussion.

I have enjoyed this work experience to a vast extent, I believe this programme has provided me with great insight into how EY operate as a professional services firm as well as the different programmes they offer and routes into the company, such as the business apprenticeship and graduate programmes. Each session added something unique to the programme, with a broad range of employees working across different service lines, offices and countries to provide their own personal experiences.

The work experience was incredibly well organised, from the application process to submitting the necessary documentation to join the program such as consent forms. We received our joining instructions for the virtual meetings well prior to the start of the program, allowing us to ensure we had the correct equipment and could all access the sessions. Finally, within the program it was very well structured, we as interns were kept well informed on the agenda and which session we had to join and at what time. It was very professional and allowed the program to run smoothly.

I've learned an incredible amount of information about EY as a firm and the diversity they offer within their company. With sessions dedicated to diversity and inclusiveness I gained a great insight into the different types of people who work at EY and the networks they have within the company. Many different speakers working in different roles such as senior positions, apprentices and graduates demonstrated the different career paths people take into EY and how they create such a diverse culture.

This work experience has played a huge role in me deciding my future career. The broad range of opportunities offered within EY have been the determining factor in deciding I would love to secure and pursue one of the business apprenticeships the firm offer, and participating in the business academy gives me a huge head start by offering an application fast track for the assurance and tax apprenticeships. This program has allowed me to decide I'd love to work in a professional services firm such as EY.

Yes, another amazing factor of this experience is that EY pay everybody who participates in the program. This is amazingly beneficial, not only do we gain valuable insight into how the firm operates and the opportunities they provide, but they also pay you to do so. I believe this demonstrates how EY care for their employees, they offer a large amount of benefits such as the flexibility to work from home, purchase more holidays and discounted gym memberships.

Their were great opportunities to network with EY employees, including the panel sessions they hosted. The first panel session was hosted by four current business apprentices, where we had the opportunity ask any questions we wanted and gain insight on their work at EY. Another session was with our local office 'Buddies', where we had a meeting with apprentices at our local offices, mine being Newcastle, allowing us to talk to the people we could potentially be working with in the future. The majority of speakers also provided their linkedin accounts, allowing us to connect on that platform.

Yes

I would definitely recommend EY to a friend as the environment they have created for their employees is unique and unlike any other working environment. With an incredibly diverse culture this provides the opportunity to meet different people who come from different backgrounds and experiences, allowing us to gain insight and develop our network. Moreover, the benefits they offer to their employees show how much EY care for their employees as a firm, and they provide amazing opportunities to develop your professional career.

During your application for the business academy my main piece of advice is to be yourself, and research EY as a firm prior to completing your application. You need to demonstrate your skill set and show how you would fit in within the company, and what you can offer to them. Also, you need to prove you can thrive within a professional environment, giving examples of experiences/projects you've participated in which have helped improve your skills.