Associate Review

Daily tasks can typically involve dealing with emails from both internal and external contacts, working on tasks set by the senior/manager on the team and carrying out routine daily tasks (e.g. timesheet, expenses, online learning). An associate will work closely to those who are qualified and with management.

Since starting the apprenticeship, I have developed existing skills such as better communication skills and confidence as well as improved email writing skills and typing. I have also developed new skills in particular in areas such as excel and powerpoint plus further developed professional judgement and skepticism. Outside of day to day work, external training courses have also improved my accounting knowledge.

I enjoy both the day-to-day work that is involved through the programme but more importantly I enjoy the team I work with as well as the continuing development of myself as a person, both in terms of the new and improved personal skills but also the knowledge and expertise gained. The company culture is also very good which further promotes my enjoyment.

The programme is well organised and has a solid structure to it, with internal and external trainings regularly scheduled throughout. Support is good, with both a buddy and counsellor assigned to which I can reach out to for support and guidance. There is also a designated apprenticeship team in place for apprenticeship specific guidance.

I receive a significant amount of support from my employer. Regular meetings are scheduled such as quick catchup calls, one to one calls, teams calls, office wide calls and region wide calls all designed to provide a sense on inclusivity. I have a designated counsellor who I can reach out for any advice, support or guidance and an apprenticeship coach for anything apprenticeship related.

I receive a good degree of support from my tutors whilst studying for my upcoming exams. There will be designated weeks in which you attend college (physically or virtually). Throughout this I have a tutor I can reach out to to help answer any questions or queries I might have.

Knowledge gained from the study of the qualification can be applied to perform better in the role on a day to day basis. Some areas of the program help more than others but ultimately passing all exams and qualifying is the goal and helps to set you up in good stead for the future.

There are some extra curricular activities although this is quite limited. In part due to the size of our office being one of the smallest in the country but almost there is not much support from management to get involved with any as the focus is very much on working. The activities there are include fitness group, football. There are also various socials organised throughout the year such as the Summer event or the Christmas party.

Yes

EY offers a wide range of benefits for all it's employees, from competitive pay to endless opportunities. The most important bit to me is the connections you build and the friends you make within the teams you work - especially so when joining as an apprentice. With similar people to you, it is very easy to settle in well and enjoy the programme. The work is also fun and diverse, sometimes challenging but mostly enjoyable.

Do your research, finds the role that suits you, be prepared, builds strong relationship through networking, and enjoy the process. Whilst applying to a company like EY can be daunting (Big4, global, very large employer), the process is very good and the support is in place if ever you need. Embrace the challenge and the rewards will follow.