Smart Futures Intern Review

I was a Smart Futures Intern and my daily tasks included presentations, case studies, public speaking and completing skill developing exercises. We would also add to our CMI logs daily to be able to obtain a qualification in team leadership level 2. Our daily interactions included talking to peers and employees of EY and listening into conference calls.

The existing skills I developed were my research skills, time management, presentation skills and public speaking skills. Skills that I gained were communication skills, team leadership as well as gaining confidence. I also worked towards a CMI qualification in team leadership level 2. I now know how to act in a professional work environment. We also developed IT skills through IT training

I thoroughly enjoyed the programme. The work we had to do daily was interesting and engaging. The team of employees hosting the programme were kind and helpful. The company as a whole have a great vision, work really hard and are passionate about their work, which is inspiring. The programme definitely surpassed my expectations.

I felt very valued at EY. I was treated as if I was an actual employee at the firm and was valued and appreciated by the team hosting the programme. I got internal recognition of most improved student and felt increasingly involved in all of the tasks and projects we had include, such as case studies and presentations.

The programme was fairly structured. The induction was well organised and the support throughout the programme. Although the training was not structured well and at different times each day. The mentors were helpful and understanding when I had inquiries. Task delegation was well organised and it was clear as to what everyone had to do for each task.

I received a tremendous amount of support from all the training providers during the programme. They wee accessible at all times and I was free to ask them any question I needed to. They guided us well when we had problems and had a positive attitude towards all of us taking the programme. I enjoyed the programme very much

I did not receive any support from Managers as they were not involved in the smart futures programme. Although, I got lots of support from the team members hosting the programme. They had a positive attitude and helped and guided us when we had problems. I enjoyed the programme and was guided well.

My salary meets my living costs very well, although it did not meet my travel costs as I lived quite far from where the programme took place. The location of the programme was far from where I lived and was quite hard to find. The pay was adequate for the daily costs as food was provided.

There were many opportunities outside of work such as trips to London and other EY offices. We also visited other firms and completed activates such as dragons den day. We also went bowling as a leisure activity with some of the EY employees. When we weren't working, we also completed our CMI logs

Yes

I would recommend this programme to a friend as it had bettered me as a person. The skill allowed me to met new people, develop and also gain skills that would aid me in the future. This programme will help you whether you go to university or go straight to work after education.

Tips I would give to people applying for EY is apply early and finish the application quickly as the application process is quite long. Also do not leave the application to the last minute. Prepare for the telephone interview and research the company, so you are ready to answer every question. Although, i would have liked to have been told about the CMI qualification before the programme as this was a surprise to me on the induction.