Trainee Associate Review

On a average day I am responsible for auditing a variety of accounts for a variety of companies (all of vastly different sizes). This involves trying to spot errors and making sure numbers agree, basically detective work but on excel. I am often also sent to clients sites to verify the existence of inventory.

Communicating in a professional environment is a skill that I have developed on this program. You are required to speak to clients in a formal environment and this isn't a situation I was used to before this apprenticeship. I now feel confident that I can chose and use an appropriate tone when communicating

I enjoy my program a lot. My work varies on a day to day basis. Yes, I do work long hours but EY are really flexible and don't normally mind when you work as long as you do. This allows you to do things you really enjoy in evenings.

For a large program, my apprenticeship is well structured. There are checkpoints and goals set throughout the year, a comprehensive online calendar, and personal support and mentoring to help you stay on top of work. As my program is so large, there are many apprenticeships working towards the same goals as myself so asking them if stuck is easily done.

My employer offers a wide range of support. Firstly, there are regular check ins from a variety of people who are all equipped to give any support that might be needed. Each apprentice is also assigned to a specific mentor who they can go to for support at any time.

During learning, tutors are real experts in the areas they are teaching and are equipped too give you the highest level of learning. Every apprentice is also provided with digital and physical copies of the course materials to support everyone's needs. However, little support is given when students are expected to self study. A check in from your tutor every now and then would be beneficial

The qualification I am studying, whilst not directly related to my role in EY, does still have some aspects that are relevant and I use in my everyday work. The soft skills and more general accounting principles are the most beneficial area of my learning but more specific details perhaps aren't always relevant to my role. However, this qualification is the gold standard for accountants so will be very relevant if trying to achieve a different role after this apprenticeship.

Extra-curicular activities to mostly revolve around team/office social events and groups supporting different communities (e.g. women in business, LGBTQ+, ethnic minorities), I feel there could be more organized sporting/arts activities for staff members. When I joined the firm, there was an office 5 a side football event weekly but after 2 weeks, this has stopped showing this area could be improved.

Yes

EY is a very well run company that provides a good platform for those wanting to develop their careers in professional services. The Name 'EY' is globally known which I believe would be a huge advantage if attempting to secure another position at a different company in the financial world.

Apply for other similar vacancies at similar organizations before applying to your first choice provider. I found interview questions and assessments to be similar when applying for all companies, so the more experience you have going into an interview or assessment with EY, the higher your chances of success will be.