First Year Politics and Sociology student Harry just secured a summer internship with EY, which starts in July 2017. He heard about the role when he met representatives from EY at the Bright Network Festival, so we caught up with him to ask what he was expecting from the internship, and if he had any tips for Bright Network members looking to follow in his footsteps.
Why did you choose a summer internship with EY?
EY is not only one of the most prestigious graduate employers, frequently featuring in the Top 100, but also an institution with a unique culture, where individuals are hired on the basis of not just their academic results and work experience, but mainly on their ability to interact with other people. This means that, in my experience, everyone I've met from EY has been extremely personable and friendly. I think this differentiates it from its other "Big Four" competitors and was the main reason I applied.
What was the toughest part of the application process?
Undoubtedly the assessment centre. It's designed to test all of your core faculties and you will be required to complete a number of tasks under intense time pressure. The difficult balance is trying to complete them all but to a high standard. Having said that, it was a very rewarding experience.
Were you surprised by anything in the process?
EY's recruitment process is differentiated by its strong focus on "strengths". Questions at interview are harder than competency questions to prepare for because learning examples of your competencies, whilst useful, is not adequate by itself to answer the questions.
What three top tips would you give your fellow Bright Network members?
In the assessment centre, stay positive, work as a team and most importantly, know the day-to-day role of an employee in your service line. That's where a lot of candidates trip up.
What's your lucky charm or pre-interview ritual?
Embrace the nervousness! Your brain functions fastest on some adrenaline.