Hey guys! I'm super excited to share my amazing experience as an intern at EY this past summer. If you're considering an internship with them, or just curious about what it's like, then keep on reading. I'll dive deep into my roles, responsibilities, the projects I tackled, and the overall company culture. Trust me, it's an experience you won't want to miss!

Application and Interview Process

So, let's start from the very beginning: the application process. I remember being so nervous! The first step was submitting my resume and cover letter through the EY careers website. Make sure your resume is polished and highlights your relevant skills and experiences. Tailor your cover letter to show your genuine interest in EY and the specific internship role you're applying for. Don't just send a generic one – they can spot those a mile away!

After the initial screening, I was invited for a phone interview. This was mainly a behavioral interview, where the recruiter asked about my past experiences, teamwork skills, and problem-solving abilities. Pro tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. It helps you provide clear and concise examples. I spent hours practicing my responses, and it definitely paid off! Following the phone interview, I was invited to an in-person interview, which was more technical and involved case studies. I was definitely feeling the pressure. For the case studies, I recommend practicing beforehand with sample cases. Familiarize yourself with basic accounting and finance concepts. The interviewers are looking for your thought process and how you approach problems, not necessarily the “right” answer. I remember one particularly challenging case study about analyzing a company's financial performance and recommending strategies for improvement. It was intense, but I learned so much from the experience. The entire process was rigorous but also incredibly rewarding. It really pushed me to showcase my abilities and learn more about EY.

My Role and Responsibilities

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of my role. I was placed in the Tax service line, which was my top choice! As a Tax intern, I supported the team with various tasks, including preparing tax returns, conducting research on tax laws and regulations, and assisting with client communication. One of my main responsibilities was gathering and organizing financial data from clients. This required a high level of accuracy and attention to detail, as even small errors could have significant consequences. I also had the opportunity to work with different types of clients, from small businesses to large corporations, which gave me a broad understanding of the tax landscape.

Another key aspect of my role was conducting tax research. I would delve into tax codes, court cases, and IRS guidance to find answers to specific client questions. This was challenging at times, but it also allowed me to develop my analytical and problem-solving skills. I learned how to navigate complex legal documents and interpret them in a practical way. Furthermore, I assisted with the preparation of tax returns for individuals and businesses. This involved inputting financial data into tax software, calculating tax liabilities, and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. It was a great learning experience that gave me hands-on exposure to the tax filing process. Beyond these core responsibilities, I also had the chance to participate in team meetings, client calls, and training sessions. These opportunities allowed me to network with professionals at all levels and learn from their experiences. I was constantly learning new things and expanding my knowledge of the tax industry. The role was demanding but also incredibly fulfilling, and I felt like I was making a real contribution to the team.

Projects I Worked On

Now, let's talk about the exciting projects I had the chance to contribute to! One of the most memorable projects was assisting with a large corporate tax audit. I helped the team gather and analyze financial documents, prepare schedules, and communicate with the client. It was a fantastic opportunity to see how a tax audit is conducted from start to finish. I gained a deep understanding of the audit process and the importance of accuracy and documentation.

Another project I worked on involved researching tax implications for a new business venture. I had to analyze the relevant tax laws and regulations and provide recommendations to the client on how to structure their business to minimize their tax burden. This project challenged me to think critically and apply my tax knowledge in a practical way. I also had the opportunity to work on a project related to international taxation. I researched the tax treaties between the United States and other countries and analyzed the tax implications for multinational corporations. This project broadened my understanding of the global tax landscape and the complexities of international business. In addition to these major projects, I also worked on several smaller assignments, such as preparing tax filings for non-profit organizations and assisting with tax planning for high-net-worth individuals. Each project provided me with unique learning opportunities and helped me develop my skills as a tax professional. The projects were challenging and engaging, and I felt like I was making a real contribution to the firm.

Company Culture and Networking

One of the things I loved most about my internship was the company culture at EY. Everyone was so welcoming, supportive, and genuinely invested in my growth. From day one, I felt like I was part of the team. There were countless opportunities to network with professionals at all levels. I attended several networking events, where I met partners, managers, and senior associates. These events were a great way to learn about different career paths and gain insights into the industry.

EY also emphasized the importance of work-life balance, which I really appreciated. They offered various wellness programs and encouraged employees to take time for themselves. This created a positive and supportive work environment. Furthermore, EY provided numerous training and development opportunities. I attended workshops on topics such as leadership, communication, and technical skills. These training sessions helped me enhance my professional skills and prepared me for future challenges. The company also had a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. They celebrated different cultures and backgrounds and created a welcoming environment for everyone. This made me feel valued and respected as an individual. Overall, the company culture at EY was amazing, and it made my internship experience even more rewarding. I felt like I was part of a supportive and inclusive community, and I learned so much from my colleagues.

Key Takeaways and Advice

Okay, so what are my key takeaways from this whole experience? First and foremost, an internship at EY is an incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and make valuable connections. I gained practical skills, expanded my knowledge of the tax industry, and developed my professional network. If you're considering an internship with EY, I highly recommend it!

Here's some advice for future interns: be proactive, ask questions, and don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. The more you put yourself out there, the more you'll get out of the experience. Also, make sure to build relationships with your colleagues. Networking is crucial for your career development. Attend networking events, grab coffee with people, and stay in touch after the internship ends. Finally, remember to have fun! An internship is a great way to explore your interests, learn about different career paths, and make lifelong friends. Embrace the experience and make the most of it. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity I had to intern at EY, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to gain valuable experience in the accounting and finance industry. It was a transformative experience that has helped me grow both personally and professionally.