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Sophie P.

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Top Insider Advice

Putting yourself out there can feel uncomfortable, but that’s where growth happens. It’s easy to stick with what you know, but stepping into the unknown is how you learn and expand your skills. For example, when I applied for the EY Degree Apprenticeship, I was nervous about putting myself in such a competitive environment. But the challenge of the application process pushed me to improve my skills, prepare thoroughly, and stay focused. While it was tough at times, the sense of achievement when I received the offer was unforgettable. Overcoming challenges like that builds confidence and shows you what you’re capable of. The more you embrace discomfort, the more you realize how much you can grow.

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Career path

Degree Apprentice - Audit Data Analyst

EY UK

From 09/2023 to 12/2024

Company

What do you like about your job and the company?

Joining EY at 18 has been an incredible opportunity, and I feel fortunate to be in an environment that will set me up for life. The diversity of people I work with - from different ages, cultures, and backgrounds - has enriched my experience and broadened my perspective. At such a young age, I’ve built a strong network, and I always feel that my voice is heard. Every time I find myself struggling, I take a step back and remind myself of the amazing opportunity I have, and this alone motivates me to keep pushing forward. The range of skills I’ve developed here, from technical expertise to soft skills, is something I never would have gained if I had chosen the traditional university route. Each day brings new learning experiences, and I’m excited to continue growing both professionally and personally in such a dynamic environment.

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Top Insider Advice

Match your values to the company that you are applying to and make sure both what they do within work projects and outside of this engages your interests so that you have the motivation to develop yourself professionally and personally throughout your career journey. It will always present much more positively if you are truly excited and enjoy what you will do in your daily role.

Ross W

Top Insider Advice

Something I've learnt a lot in this role - as cliche as it may sound - is that whenever you have doubts about something in your line of work, it's best to ask for a second opinion. Especially when you're new to the role, it can seem a little embarrassing having to ask a question every five minutes (for me, the one that stands out is having to ask whether I was allowed to use the office milk with my afternoon cup of tea), but there's really nothing to be afraid of. Everyone wants to see you do well - your manager wants to see you develop; your team want you to contribute effectively to the engagement; and the client wants to make sure that they're getting as much as possible out of your audit. Something to keep in mind is that you'll be working with people who were in your shoes not too long before you! On my first engagement, I've been lucky enough to work with my assigned "Buddy" (a member of staff a year ahead of you in your programme/apprenticeship), as well as a "Senior" (a newly qualified member of staff, usually with about 3-4 years of experience). They've been really good at reminding me that they had the same questions a year or two previously. You'll also have other graduates/business apprentices at the same stage as you - make sure you help each other along the way!

Hitasvi M

Top Insider Advice

Based on training sessions I have attended and the induction session we have had, the most common advice given to us was ' Ask questions.' And I absolutely abide by it. I always ask lots of questions! My colleagues always remind me that there is no such a thing as a silly question. They are always happy to answer my questions and provide me with context on what I'm doing, why I'm doing it and more importantly, advise on the approach I should take to action a task. This helped me gain an insight into the wider picture of the engagement, helping me understand the client better.

Discussions with Sophie P
How do you complete the apprenticeship, is it through attending college or online?
in Career Tips·Thursday, May 25, 2017
2 responses
1118 views
What is the difference between UK&I and FSO
in Career Tips·Thursday, March 26, 2020
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2 responses
From livechat
1753 views
What is the best way to prepare for an interview?
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
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4 responses
From livechat
14 views