Business Academy Intern Review

The three day experience covered introductions to EY, including their work surrounding diversity and inclusivity, their Business Apprenticeship programme and also an insight into the graduate scheme. It also included presentations from many different employees at EY, from a variety of service lines and offices, sharing their experiences with the company and their role. There was an amazing case study session which provided a great look at what Audit teams do day-to-day. Other sessions included business writing and presentation skills, as well as building confidence and resilience. Finally, there were also many opportunities to ask any questions that arose.

I've learnt a lot about the Business Apprenticeship programme and the professional qualification that you complete on it. Some of the top tips that I've come away with, in terms of personal development is, to take every opportunity that you're given and be yourself. I found the business writing and presentation skills presentation especially helpful, as it's such an important aspect of working in a global professional services firm. Lastly, I feel that this course has helped to boost my confidence and also develop my personal brand through the elevator pitch competition.

I have to say that the Business Academy has well exceeded my expectations! I've really enjoyed my time on it, albeit virtual. The student recruitment people also helped to make everyone feel welcome, through ice-breaker challenges and quizzes! Personally, I particularly enjoyed speaking with some members from my local office and finding out the ins-and-outs of what it's really like at EY. All the teams seem so friendly and I can't wait to continue my fast-track for the Business Apprenticeship.

The student recruitment team have done a great job on organising the three days, especially with the conversion to the online programme. The structure of the week was amazing, covering everything I could possibly want to know about the business! Each of the sessions were very informative and the opportunity to hear from so many people has been great! The continuous support has been great too, not only with technical issues, but also with any further questions we might have.

Although the Business Academy became virtual, I feel that I've still managed to learn so much about the culture of EY, through sessions on their values for example the work of diversity and inclusion. When speaking to apprentices from my local office, I got a real feel for the type of atmosphere that exists there and how supportive and friendly everyone is. One of the most positive things that stood out for me, was that fact that everyone wants to see you succeed and will always be happy to help out in any way!

The work experience has definitely given me more of an insight into what role a Business Apprentice has in EY and that this is something that I will absolutely be pursuing! Getting to speak to employees themselves and ask questions directly, has made me realise that a career in accountancy with EY is right for me. Also, through a case study, it has helped me understand what a typical day might look like in Assurance.

I was originally supposed to be having this week in the Southampton office of EY, however due to COVID 19, it was moved online. The course was shortened to three days instead of five, but I still got paid for this time. As we are at home, there were no additional expenses or travel costs. I felt it was very generous of EY to still pay me even though I didn't complete any work in the office.

Throughout the three days experience, there were several opportunities to network and talk to employees about their experiences in the company. EY also allowed me to connect with anyone from the presentation on LinkedIn, to ask any further questions if needed. There was also an opportunity to speak with a couple of people from my local office in Southampton, where I could ask specific questions. All the employees made it clear they were happy to talk later about anything we wanted to ask.

Yes

To me, EY really seems like a community where everyone seems to want to help each other out to succeed. I also think that the work with diversity and inclusivity is great and the emphasis on building and developing your own career, as well as, you as a person. Another thing is the support network; having both a buddy and a counsellor is something that is quite unique and ensures that your progress is important.

The application process for the Business Academy is fairly long and quite difficult, however it's definitely worthwhile and EY acknowledge that candidates have done well to gain a place on the work experience scheme. There is also a great opportunity for fast-tracking onto the Business Apprenticeship for the following year, if you're are successful. EY really want to get to know you as a person, so be yourself throughout the process. Good luck!