Hey guys! I'm super excited to share my amazing summer internship experience at EY! It was a total whirlwind of learning, networking, and growth. If you're thinking about applying for an internship at EY, or just curious about what it's like, buckle up! This is my story.

Getting In: The Application Process

The application process might seem daunting, but honestly, it's pretty straightforward. I started by researching EY's various internship programs to find one that aligned with my interests and skills. I was particularly drawn to their assurance services, so I focused my application there. Make sure that your resume is polished and highlights any relevant coursework, projects, and extracurricular activities. EY looks for well-rounded individuals who are not only academically strong but also possess strong leadership and teamwork abilities. Spend time tailoring your resume and cover letter to showcase how your skills and experiences match the specific requirements of the internship program you are applying for. Don't just send a generic application; make it personal and demonstrate your genuine interest in EY. The next step involved an online assessment, which tested my numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and logical thinking skills. Practice these types of tests beforehand to familiarize yourself with the format and improve your speed and accuracy. There are plenty of free resources available online that can help you prepare. Finally, I had a virtual interview with a couple of EY professionals. Be prepared to answer behavioral questions about your past experiences, such as how you handled a challenging situation or worked effectively in a team. Research the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and provide concrete examples. Also, make sure to research EY's values and culture to demonstrate that you understand what the firm stands for. Showing genuine enthusiasm and asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview can leave a lasting positive impression. Remember to follow up with a thank-you note after each interview stage to reiterate your interest and appreciation.

First Impressions and Onboarding

Walking into the EY office on my first day was a mix of excitement and nerves. The office environment was modern and vibrant, with open workspaces that encouraged collaboration. The onboarding process was incredibly well-organized. We had a series of training sessions that introduced us to EY's culture, values, and the specific tools and technologies we would be using. These sessions were not only informative but also provided opportunities to network with other interns and full-time employees. One of the most valuable aspects of the onboarding was the emphasis on EY's commitment to diversity and inclusion. We learned about the various employee resource groups and the firm's initiatives to promote a more equitable and inclusive workplace. This made me feel like I was part of a company that truly valued its people and their unique perspectives. My initial impression was that EY was a place where I could learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact. The onboarding process also covered essential topics such as ethics, compliance, and client confidentiality. Understanding these principles from the outset was crucial for ensuring that we conducted ourselves professionally and maintained the highest standards of integrity. The trainers were engaging and knowledgeable, and they created a supportive learning environment where we felt comfortable asking questions and sharing our thoughts. By the end of the onboarding week, I felt well-prepared and excited to begin my internship journey.

My Role and Responsibilities

As an assurance intern, my main responsibility was to assist the audit teams in reviewing financial statements and ensuring their accuracy and compliance with accounting standards. This involved tasks such as examining financial records, verifying data, and preparing audit documentation. I was assigned to a variety of client engagements, which gave me exposure to different industries and business models. Each engagement presented its own unique challenges and learning opportunities. One of the most exciting projects I worked on involved analyzing a company's revenue recognition policies to ensure they were in accordance with accounting standards. This required me to delve deep into the company's contracts and sales agreements, and to apply my knowledge of accounting principles to determine whether the revenue was being recognized appropriately. I also had the opportunity to interact with clients directly, attending meetings and participating in discussions about their financial performance. This gave me valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in today's dynamic environment. My responsibilities also included preparing presentations and reports for the audit team, which helped me to develop my communication and analytical skills. The learning curve was steep, but I was fortunate to have supportive colleagues who were always willing to answer my questions and provide guidance. They challenged me to think critically and to take ownership of my work, which helped me to grow both professionally and personally. I quickly learned the importance of attention to detail, time management, and teamwork in the audit process.

Day-to-Day Life as an EY Intern

No two days were exactly alike, which kept things interesting! A typical day might start with a team meeting to discuss the day's objectives and assign tasks. Then, I would dive into my work, which could involve anything from reviewing financial documents to conducting research on accounting regulations. There were also plenty of opportunities to network with other interns and EY professionals. We had regular coffee chats and team lunches, which helped us to build relationships and learn from each other's experiences. EY also organized a variety of social events for the interns, such as team-building activities and volunteer opportunities. These events were a great way to unwind and connect with my colleagues outside of the office. One of the highlights was a volunteering event at a local food bank, where we helped to sort and pack food for families in need. This experience reminded me of the importance of giving back to the community and the positive impact that we can make when we work together. The work environment at EY was generally fast-paced and demanding, but there was also a strong emphasis on work-life balance. Our managers encouraged us to take breaks and to prioritize our well-being. They understood that we were students, and they were supportive of our academic commitments. I also found the culture to be very collaborative and supportive. My colleagues were always willing to lend a hand or offer advice, and there was a strong sense of camaraderie among the interns. I felt like I was part of a team that was working towards a common goal.

The Mentorship Experience

One of the most valuable aspects of my EY internship was the mentorship program. I was paired with a senior associate who served as my mentor throughout the summer. My mentor was an incredible resource and provided invaluable guidance on everything from navigating the audit process to developing my career goals. We met regularly to discuss my progress, address any challenges I was facing, and set goals for my development. My mentor also shared her own experiences and insights, which helped me to understand the realities of working in the accounting profession. She provided me with constructive feedback on my work and helped me to identify areas where I could improve. She also encouraged me to network with other professionals within the firm and to explore different career paths. One of the most helpful things my mentor did was to connect me with people who had experience in areas that I was interested in. This allowed me to learn more about different roles within EY and to make informed decisions about my future career. My mentor also helped me to develop my professional skills, such as communication, presentation, and leadership. She provided me with opportunities to practice these skills and gave me feedback on my performance. I am incredibly grateful for the mentorship I received during my EY internship. It made a significant difference in my development and helped me to build a strong foundation for my future career.

Key Takeaways and Skills Gained

I walked away from my EY summer internship with a wealth of knowledge, skills, and experiences. I gained a deep understanding of the audit process, accounting principles, and the regulatory environment. I also developed strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. One of the most important things I learned was the importance of attention to detail. In the audit profession, even the smallest error can have significant consequences. I learned to be meticulous in my work and to double-check everything I did. I also developed my time management skills. The workload during the internship was demanding, and I had to learn how to prioritize tasks and manage my time effectively. I also honed my teamwork skills. I worked closely with other interns and EY professionals, and I learned how to collaborate effectively to achieve common goals. In addition to these technical skills, I also gained valuable soft skills. I learned how to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues, how to present my ideas clearly and concisely, and how to build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. The EY internship also helped me to develop my professional network. I met many talented and inspiring people who I hope to stay in touch with throughout my career. Overall, my EY summer internship was an incredibly rewarding experience. It gave me the opportunity to learn, grow, and make a meaningful contribution to the firm. I would highly recommend this internship to any student who is interested in pursuing a career in accounting or finance.

Would I Recommend It? Absolutely!

If you're on the fence about applying for an EY internship, let me just say: go for it! It's an amazing opportunity to gain real-world experience, develop valuable skills, and network with industry professionals. Plus, the EY culture is super supportive and inclusive. You'll definitely learn a lot and have a ton of fun along the way. My EY summer internship was a transformative experience that has shaped my career goals and provided me with a strong foundation for success. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity I had and would highly recommend it to any student who is looking to gain valuable experience in the accounting profession. The skills and knowledge I gained during the internship have already proven to be invaluable in my academic studies and future career endeavors. EY's commitment to providing interns with meaningful work, mentorship, and professional development opportunities sets it apart from other internship programs. If you are looking for an internship that will challenge you, support you, and help you to grow both personally and professionally, then an EY internship is definitely worth considering.