Hey guys! I'm super excited to share my incredible experience as an intern at EY (Ernst & Young) this past summer. It was seriously a game-changer for me, and I hope my story inspires you to consider an internship too! Let's dive right into all the deets!

Landing the EY Internship

Okay, so getting the EY internship wasn't a walk in the park, but it was SO worth it! I started my research super early, like way before the deadlines, because preparation is key, right? I spent hours on the EY careers website, soaking up all the info about their various internship programs. They offer internships in everything from assurance and tax to consulting and strategy – pretty much something for everyone. I knew I wanted to focus on something in the consulting realm, so I tailored my application accordingly.

The application process itself was pretty straightforward. I had to submit my resume, transcript, and a cover letter. Now, let me tell you, the cover letter is where you REALLY get to shine. I made sure to highlight my relevant skills, experiences, and why I was specifically interested in EY. I also did a ton of research on EY's values and culture and made sure to weave that into my letter. Showing that you understand and align with their values can seriously set you apart. After submitting my application, I had to complete an online assessment, which tested my problem-solving skills and logical reasoning. It was a bit nerve-wracking, but I just took a deep breath and did my best. A few weeks later, I got the call for an interview! I prepped like crazy, practicing common interview questions and researching EY's recent projects. The interview was with two senior consultants, and it was actually a really engaging conversation. They asked about my experiences, my career goals, and how I would approach certain scenarios. I made sure to ask thoughtful questions at the end to show my genuine interest. A week later, I got the offer! I was ecstatic! All the hard work had paid off. The key to landing the EY internship is to start early, tailor your application, practice your interview skills, and show your genuine enthusiasm for the company and the role.

My Role and Responsibilities

Once I landed the EY internship, I was assigned to a consulting project focused on digital transformation for a major retail client. Talk about exciting! From day one, I felt like a real member of the team. My responsibilities were diverse and challenging, which is exactly what I wanted. I was involved in everything from conducting market research and analyzing data to creating presentations and participating in client meetings. One of my main tasks was to help the client understand the latest trends in e-commerce and how they could leverage technology to improve their online sales. I spent hours researching different platforms, analyzing customer data, and developing strategies to enhance their online presence. I also had the opportunity to work with some seriously talented people. My team was incredibly supportive, and they were always willing to answer my questions and provide guidance. I learned so much from them about the consulting industry and the importance of teamwork. In addition to my project work, I also participated in several training sessions and workshops. EY is committed to investing in their interns, and they provided us with ample opportunities to develop our skills and expand our knowledge. We learned about topics like design thinking, data analytics, and project management. These sessions were invaluable and helped me to grow both personally and professionally. I presented findings and recommendations to the client. It was definitely a nerve-wracking experience, but it was also incredibly rewarding. Seeing the impact of my work firsthand was an amazing feeling. Overall, my role and responsibilities as an EY intern were challenging, rewarding, and incredibly valuable. I gained hands-on experience in the consulting industry, developed my skills, and learned from some of the best in the business.

A Typical Day as an EY Intern

So, what did a typical day look like during my EY summer internship? Well, let me walk you through it! Most days started around 8:30 or 9:00 AM. I'd usually grab a quick coffee and check my emails to see if there were any urgent tasks or meetings. Then, I'd dive into my project work. This could involve anything from analyzing data in Excel to creating presentations in PowerPoint or conducting research online. A big chunk of my day was often spent collaborating with my team. We'd have regular check-in meetings to discuss our progress, brainstorm ideas, and troubleshoot any challenges. These meetings were super helpful, as they allowed us to stay aligned and learn from each other's experiences. Lunch was usually around 12:30 or 1:00 PM. I'd often grab lunch with my fellow interns or team members. It was a great way to network and get to know people outside of my immediate project team. After lunch, I'd continue working on my project tasks. This might involve preparing for client meetings, writing reports, or developing presentations. I also spent time attending training sessions or workshops. EY really emphasizes continuous learning, so there were always opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. Towards the end of the day, I'd wrap up my tasks, update my to-do list for the next day, and send out any necessary emails. I'd usually leave the office around 5:30 or 6:00 PM. Of course, some days were longer than others, especially when we had deadlines to meet. But overall, the work-life balance was pretty good. One thing that really stood out to me was the flexibility that EY offered. We were encouraged to work remotely when needed and to manage our own schedules. This allowed me to balance my work responsibilities with my personal commitments. In addition to the regular project work, there were also a lot of social events and networking opportunities. EY organized intern events, team outings, and volunteer activities. These events were a great way to build relationships with my fellow interns and learn more about the company culture. Overall, a typical day as an EY intern was busy, challenging, and rewarding. I was constantly learning new things, developing my skills, and making valuable connections.

The Culture at EY

The culture at EY is something I really appreciated. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed and supported. Everyone was so friendly and willing to help, which made the transition into the professional world so much smoother. One of the things that stood out to me was EY's commitment to diversity and inclusion. They have a wide range of employee resource groups that celebrate different backgrounds and perspectives. This created a really inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone felt like they belonged. I felt comfortable being myself at work, which made a huge difference in my overall experience. EY also places a strong emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. Everyone worked together to achieve common goals, and there was a real sense of camaraderie. I learned so much from my colleagues, and I felt like my contributions were valued. There were also plenty of opportunities to network and connect with people from different teams and departments. EY organized regular social events, team outings, and volunteer activities. These events were a great way to build relationships and learn more about the company culture. In addition to the social aspects, EY also provided a lot of resources and support for our professional development. We had access to training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career counseling. EY is committed to investing in their employees, and they provide ample opportunities for growth and advancement. One of the things I really appreciated was EY's emphasis on work-life balance. While the work could be demanding at times, there was a real understanding that we also had lives outside of work. We were encouraged to take time off when we needed it and to prioritize our well-being. Overall, the culture at EY was positive, supportive, and inclusive. I felt valued, respected, and empowered to reach my full potential. It was an amazing experience, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it.

Key Takeaways and Skills Gained

My EY internship was an invaluable experience, and I walked away with so many key takeaways and new skills. First and foremost, I gained a much deeper understanding of the consulting industry. I learned about different types of consulting projects, the challenges that consultants face, and the skills that are needed to succeed. I also developed my analytical and problem-solving skills. I was constantly challenged to think critically, analyze data, and develop creative solutions to complex problems. These skills will be invaluable in my future career. I also honed my communication and presentation skills. I had the opportunity to present my findings and recommendations to clients, which helped me to build my confidence and improve my ability to communicate effectively. In addition to these technical skills, I also developed my soft skills. I learned how to work effectively in a team, how to manage my time, and how to build relationships with clients and colleagues. These skills are essential for success in any career. One of the most important takeaways from my internship was the importance of networking. I made so many valuable connections during my internship, and I learned the importance of building and maintaining relationships. These connections will be invaluable as I navigate my future career. I also gained a better understanding of EY's values and culture. I learned about their commitment to diversity and inclusion, their emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, and their dedication to providing opportunities for growth and development. Finally, my internship helped me to clarify my career goals. I now have a much better understanding of what I want to do in the future, and I'm more confident in my ability to achieve my goals. Overall, my EY internship was an amazing experience, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it. I learned so much, developed my skills, and made valuable connections. I would highly recommend an internship at EY to anyone who is interested in a career in consulting.

Advice for Future EY Interns

Okay, future EY interns, listen up! Here’s some advice to help you make the most of your experience. First, do your research. Understand EY's values, culture, and the type of work they do. This will help you tailor your application and prepare for your interview. Second, be proactive. Don't be afraid to ask questions, volunteer for tasks, and take initiative. The more you put yourself out there, the more you'll get out of the internship. Third, network, network, network. Attend social events, introduce yourself to people, and connect with your fellow interns. Building relationships is key to success in any career. Fourth, seek feedback. Ask your manager and colleagues for feedback on your performance. This will help you identify areas where you can improve and grow. Fifth, be open to learning. An internship is a great opportunity to learn new skills and expand your knowledge. Be open to new experiences and challenges. Sixth, manage your time effectively. An internship can be demanding, so it's important to manage your time effectively. Prioritize your tasks, set realistic goals, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Seventh, dress professionally. First impressions matter, so dress professionally for work and client meetings. Eighth, be enthusiastic. Show your enthusiasm for the company and the work you're doing. Your attitude can make a big difference in your overall experience. Ninth, be respectful. Treat everyone with respect, regardless of their position or background. Tenth, have fun! An internship is a great opportunity to learn, grow, and make new friends. Enjoy the experience and make the most of it. And finally, don't forget to send thank-you notes to your manager and colleagues at the end of your internship. It's a small gesture that can go a long way. By following these tips, you can have a successful and rewarding internship at EY. Good luck!

Final Thoughts

My EY summer internship was truly an unforgettable experience. I learned so much about the consulting industry, developed valuable skills, and made lasting connections. It was a challenging but rewarding experience that helped me grow both personally and professionally. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of the EY team. If you're considering an internship, I highly recommend EY. It's a great place to learn, grow, and make a difference. And who knows, maybe I'll see you there someday! Good luck with your internship journey! Remember to stay curious, stay proactive, and never stop learning!