EY Smart Futures Student Review

EY Smart Futures Student A three week programme: Week one and two was internal whilst week three was external. Week one and two was spent within the firm as we worked in different teams every day interacting with fellow smart futures students on different business tasks. Week three was extremely interesting as we interacted with real clients of EY. During this week were divided into teams all holding different responsibilities and this gave us a taster of what working for a firm such as EY entails. An overall very insightful and enjoyable experience.

We were given certificates following the completion of the programme. We all were given a chance to gain new skills through the tasks given the the first two weeks. These were largely business skills such as presenting and pitching.

Very friendly firm and overall an amazing environment to work in. Through the programme I have learnt many different skills and met a range of people from all different backgrounds. The placement exceeded my expectations.

We were encouraged by the people who work at EY to take on more responsibilities and to improve on our weaknesses. Although I was part of a cohort of 50, I was given individual feedback at the end of the programme and a mentor. We were also given recognition by the head of our team once we had finished our projects.

Well organised as the first two weeks prepared us for the final week outside the firm.

We were regularly visited by those who organised the project and given guidance and support if we needed it.

We all have mentors which we meet often for guidance in our final year at sixth form. Having a professional to refer to is really helpful and enables us to get advice or assistance when we are making big decisions such as applying to University or EY's programmes.

The pay was just a bonus to the programme and it was around £650 for the three weeks work. This more than met my expectations as I wouldn't normally expect to be paid for work experience.

After leaving we have remained in contact with mentors and we have alumni events. Furthermore they often email us regarding other events or opportunities, for example free tickets for Othello at the Globe.

Yes

A great experience and insight into what working for a top 4 firm is like. You meet a range of people from all different backgrounds and really learn so many things along the way.

Interview 1. Answer every question with a personal example and relate it to a strength. 2. Keep eye contact and feel free to allow your hands to make gestures, this suggests openness and is something which strong public speakers do. 3. As you arrive shake their hand and make small talk. This will set the setting later and make it more of a relaxed environment. 4. Be early! Let the reception know you've arrived. Speak to anyone else sitting around for an interview. Get used to the buildings it’s a lot to take in as it can be nerve racking. Make sure you plan your route well. 5. Be friendly, this interview is to showcase who you are and how much you want to be part of the programme.