Smart Futures Alumni Review

I took part in the Smart Futures programme at EY, where I spent two weeks learning core skills, such as presentation, team work and communication skills. Also we had several speakers come in to talk about their jobs and how they got their. On the third week, we were all assigned a service line, and a team and began working on different projects. My daily tasks included research tasks, attending meetings, shadowing a director and I was even allowed to go to the Birmingham EY office for a day.

I have learnt so many invaluable skills, such as presentation, communication, teamwork and how to network effectively.

The smart futures programme exceeded my expectations, and I am so glad I applied for it, as it was an amazing way to spend my summer. The people there are so friendly and eager to help, and I built a great network with people I would have never met otherwise. We were even presented to partners, and important clients, which made us feel much more involved and part if EY. I will never forget my three weeks at EY, as I learnt so much about the professional services industry, and met incredible people.

I felt very valued and appreciated, as everyday I would see my manager and director and they would always be so keen on my findings and feedback. My manager even organised a meeting in the last day, where I presented my tasks and gave my feedback. Some days I would even go out to lunch with members of the team, which was great!

Everything was well organised and ran smoothly. We all had a timetable and knew what we had to do. Also the induction was vet useful, in providing us an insight into the firm, and what we would do in the following weeks.

My buddy and mentor were amazing, and offered me so much guidance and support, e.g with my career and university options, and with any problems I had whilst working there. They were always willing to help, and we still stay in contact.

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They make you feel welcome and at home from the very first day, and everything is so well organised, that you will enjoy every task you have to do. It was truly an amazing experience.

Before you apply, research the company, so that you can bring in some facts into you interview, and really impress them. Even though it's long application process, please remain committed and motivated to finish it, because it will be worth it.