Talk about your most outstanding personal achievement.

"I am the first person in my family to pursue and get into university. After being accepted into Brigham Young University and earning multiple scholarships, my family threw a huge block party to celebrate my success. It felt amazing to pursue my post-secondary education knowing that my entire family and close network were there to support me. The fact that my education is a win for my family is a significant motivator, as well. I plan to be the best I can be in my education and career to make them proud and show my appreciation for their endless support."

Professional services firms like Ernst and Young (also referred to as EY) expect their team members to work hard and celebrate after completing the hard work. Setting goals for yourself and celebrating those achievements are essential factors to a healthy work balance. The ability to celebrate your accomplishments will show EY recruiters and decision-makers that you can take the time to acknowledge your success once you have achieved your goal. Discuss your most outstanding personal achievement, being sure to give the interviewers a glimpse into what motivates you to succeed in your personal life and why.

"I immigrated to this country at the age of 5 and neither of my parents went to college in the United States. My most outstanding personal Achievement is getting into USC with a Presidential Scholarship. Without the help of my parents and without much knowledge of the college system in the US, I was able to get into my dream school."

"I have been involved with Dance Marathon since high school, and have continued my involvement in college. Dance Marathon raises money for Children's Miracle Network which helps kids in the hospital. During high school, I was the Executive Director and was able to lead everyone in raising $66,000 for the kids. During college, I was on the morale committee and the BAMAthon committee. Both these committees played an essential role in our program's success. This is my most outstanding achievement because I have been able to make an impact in my community and do something bigger than myself."

What questions do you have for us?

"Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions today. My first question is, what is the most important quality to possess as an EY Intern? (Note: your goal should be to find out what quality EY values most for this position, assess whether you possess this quality, and then speak further about how you will meet this need.) Next, in your opinion, how can I best succeed as an EY Intern? (Note: by asking this question, you allow the interviewer to picture you in the role. You also show that you have an eye on your future with EY). Last, I would love to know your favorite aspect of working for EY. (Note: this question will give you insight into everyday life while working at the firm and the most exciting aspects of the EY culture)."

The interviewers would like to know what you want to learn about working at EY. In your interview, you have the opportunity to connect with leaders at Ernst and Young, so it's essential that you make the most of this time and ask thoughtful questions that will give you helpful insight into what it's like to work with a Big 4 firm. Consider asking questions where the answers will provide you with competitive insight. It's a good idea to have 3-5 questions prepared. You don't need to ask them all if time is limited; however, by preparing a collection of questions, you can choose which you feel are most important to ask at the end of your interview.

"What are typical days like at EY and what are their expectations like? What advice would you give to someone who is new to EY on how to be successful? What do you believe is the most valuable part about working at EY?"

Tell us about a time when you took on a leadership role.

"During a group project last semester in my Marketing 2140 class, we were at a point where we were stuck as a group and weren't sure how to proceed. A few of my group members wanted to go and ask the professor, but I felt that we should show some initiative and try other avenues before reaching out to our professor. I led the group through a research project that they thought was impossible, and with the proper coaching, guidance, and instilling confidence in my group members, we completed the research. Best of all, we did not have to go to the professor for help. I am proud to say that we ended up earning an A- on the project!"

Firms like Ernst and Young will ask this question to Intern candidates, as they are looking for future leaders who naturally take on opportunities to guide others with confidence. Working at a Big 4 firm, you will need to have a succession plan which includes continually growing your strong leadership skills. As an Intern, leadership traits are necessary to complete your work, whether helping to take care of the engagement team during their busy season or making decisions about process and organization while completing your work under tight deadlines. To deliver an answer to this behavioral-based interview question, try using the STAR answer method, an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Using STAR, tell a story of when you took on a leadership role even if being a leader wasn't expected.

"Last semester, I had a group project for one of my classes. During this project, I made sure to set up an effective way for us to communicate. I also set up personal deadlines for us to ensure we stayed on track to get the project done on time."

Tell us about a time when you had to adapt to significant change. How did you cope?

"During my fall internship at a mid-sized CPA firm, a restructuring occurred in the audit department, and I received new management part-way through my term. I also needed to hand off some of the accounts I had been helping to nurture. At first, I found the change frustrating because I could not see my work to completion and had just started getting comfortable with the role and expectations. Rather than react out of frustration, I took the time to think about the positive outcome of the change. The positive factors included meeting a new team, being introduced to more leaders in the firm, and getting to know a larger number of client accounts. Once I was able to see the bigger picture and look at the overall benefits, I adjusted to my new situation quickly."

Adapting to change is an essential skill for anyone working in a Big 4 firm where change is inevitable and occurs frequently. Give the interviewers evidence that you can move through the tides of change, even though you may be new to the professional workforce. This question is behavioral-based, so the interviewers are looking for a specific story-based example of a time when you successfully responded to and dealt with change. Your example can be from either school, work, sports, volunteer, or everyday life. Deliver this story using the STAR answer method. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result.

"I studied abroad in Cape Town, South Africa. Being there was an amazing opportunity for me to grow and learn how to adapt to new situations. They have planned power outages so it was essential to plan around those to make sure I got all of my work done on time. It could get frustrating, however, I reminded myself that I am in another country and it is important to embrace the differences."

Tell us about a time when you were in danger of missing a deadline. What did you do?

"Last semester, I had a paper due at midnight on a Thursday. The evening of the deadline, I sat down at my computer to complete the final 1/3 of the assignment. I figured I'd complete the paper by about 10 PM. Unfortunately, my computer would not turn on. Initially, panic set in. My first thought was to email my professor and tell them what happened and ask for an extension, but I felt that wasn't the right decision because I needed to own up to the situation I had caused through procrastination. Instead, I called my parents, told them the situation I had created, and asked if I could come to their home and use their computer. They agreed, and I completed the paper with only a few minutes to spare. When I look back on this situation, I still feel it was the right decision to avoid asking for an extension. A broken computer seems like a poor excuse the night before a major assignment is due. I could have been more proactive and had the assignment completed even days before. I feel I did an excellent job troubleshooting the issue I created, and most importantly, I learned a valuable lesson about meeting deadlines as far ahead of time as possible."

As an Intern for Ernst and Young, you will be under the pressure of deadlines often. The interviewers want to see how well you work under pressure, so it's essential to provide evidence of your ability to handle tight deadlines by giving an example from the past. Behavioral-based interview questions that begin with 'Tell me about a time...' are best answered using the STAR method. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Organizing your response using this framework will ensure that you provide the interviewer with the right amount of information and detail to form a compelling answer. Choose a situation that is simple to explain. Focus your response on the actions you took to turn the situation around. Be sure to highlight the positive result that you were able to deliver in the end.

"I had several tests in one week and was focused on studying for the tests. I had an assignment due at the end of the week but I wanted to wait to do it because I knew the tests were going to be hard. I underestimated how long the assignment was so I struggled getting it done. However, once I realized it was longer, I took a few minutes and created a plan in order to meet my deadline."

Tell us about a time when you received constructive feedback. How did you respond?

"Last fall, during my first-year internship, I noticed some of the senior leaders were dressing more casually on Fridays. They weren't in suits yet still looked professional. On my first Friday, I arrived at the office in business casual clothing. My manager called me into their office and let me know immediately that my dress code was not up to the formal business standards of the organization. Rather than give my reasoning and explaining that I dressed in a way that reflected what I had observed, I took the feedback professionally. The firm outlined the proper dress code in my contract and that I was in breach of it, regardless. My manager and I agreed that, in the future, if I were unsure, I would ask them for clarification. I apologized for my mistake and, from then on, was sure to dress in a manner that reflected the firm more formally. I am always open to hearing feedback and applying the changes necessary to grow and improve. As an Intern, I must absorb as much as I can from my leaders and those around me who offer helpful feedback."

When working as an Intern for Ernst and Young, it's essential to be ready to receive feedback from your direct managers, engagement team members, and others. This constructive feedback will help you grow, learn, and develop the emotional intelligence required to succeed in a Big 4 firm. The way you receive and respond to feedback is critical to EY. Show the interviewers that you react to constructive feedback open-mindedly rather than becoming defensive or engaging in conflict. To deliver an answer to this behavioral-based interview question, try using the STAR answer method, an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Using STAR, tell a story of when you received constructive feedback, responded maturely, and took action to apply the feedback and create improvements.

"I was working on a tax research project for class but wasn't sure about the work I had done. I signed up for my teacher's office hours and asked her to review it with me. She said I was on the right track but was missing a part that was important. I appreciated her constructive feedback because it helped me feel more confident in my project and helped me know how to improve for future projects."

Talk about a time you had a conflict with a team member and what you did to resolve it.

"Last year at my summer job, one of my responsibilities was to take a PDF document, convert it into a Word document, perform some edits, convert it back to a PDF, and then send the document to a client group. I quickly realized that I could not convert a PDF into a Word doc. I reached out to our administrative assistant to complete this first part of the task for me. The manager mentioned they wanted this specific document sent to the client by 12 PM. I emailed the administrative assistant at 9 AM, asking them to please complete the task by 10 AM, to which they refused on account of being too busy. Instead of becoming angry at the lack of help, I extended empathy and explained the situation, including why the task and deadline were important. I explained that the manager had requested this on a tight timeline, and I would let him know that we worked as a team to make sure this document was ready to go. This approach gave the administrative assistant more interest in the task and made them feel very important. They immediately completed the task, and I was especially grateful for their help in meeting the deadline."

Of course, we hope to get along with everyone while facing minimal interpersonal issues. Despite these efforts, conflicts may occur, and disagreements may arise. These situations require swift attention, so they are not blown out of proportion or left to simmer. Discuss a time when you faced a miscommunication with a team member. Be honest with the interviewer, but avoid an extreme example that could raise red flags. Discuss how you smoothed the situation. You can even mention how you repaired your relationship with that team member. Your example can be from either school, work, sports, volunteer, or everyday life. Deliver this story using the STAR answer method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

"I was assigned to work on a task but needed information from a coworker before I could complete the task. I asked the coworker but they didn't have the information ready for me yet. I gave the coworker time but my deadline was approaching and I still didn't have it. I reached out to them and offered to work with them on getting the information done together so we could meet our deadline."

Tell us about a time you showed empathy to others.

"Last semester, in my Statistics course, we entered a group project worth a significant part of each students' grade. The project was due on a Thursday, and we quickly discovered that three of the five group members had exams booked the day before. Understanding that the majority of the group members were going to feel burnt out after a long day of exams, I felt it was best to provide food and refreshments so that they could power through our projects' evening group session that Wednesday. The group was extremely appreciative of my effort and commented on my thoughtfulness. In the end, we received an A on the project; the professor was pleased, and we were proud of ourselves for successfully pushing through a week full of high expectations. Rather than dwell on thoughts of frustration that my team members had divided attention the day before our project was due, I chose to show empathy for their schedules and did what I could to ease their stress."

Post-COVID, Ernst and Young explicitly stated that empathy in leadership is the key to achieving a positive return to the workplace. The primary points made by EY's People Advisory Services Partner statement online included: - Leaders need the ability to further understand and relate to employees. - Leaders need to balance human interaction and technology. - Leaders should create a culture that meets individual needs.When hired by EY as an Intern, you must fit into the company culture and show that you will be an excellent potential leader for the firm over time. Perhaps you take the time to understand people and think about how you can support them rather than judge them. If someone is drowning in their work, maybe you are active in lending a hand. If someone is late for a meeting, perhaps you consider their perspective rather than becoming instantly annoyed. Provide the interviewers with a specific example of a time when you extended empathy. Your example can be from either school, work, sports, volunteer, or everyday life. Deliver this story using the STAR answer method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Remember, working at EY, you are in the client-services business, and your interpersonal skills must be on point. You are supporting clients and building relationships with them, which may involve showing empathy in certain situations.

"One of my friends had to miss class due to a personal emergency. I could tell she was very stressed because the content of the lecture was hard to teach. I reached out to her and offered to help go over the topic and answer any questions she had in order to relieve some of her stress during the hard time she was going through."

Why did you choose Audit over Tax?

"I have performed extensive research on Audit vs. Tax and found that Audit was a better match for my extroverted nature. I love communicating with others and digging for answers to the toughest challenges. The thought of engaging face to face and over the phone with EY clients is exciting to me. Last week when I attended an EY information session, I learned a tremendous amount about the firms' audit practice which further confirmed my decision to pursue Audit over Tax."

Audit and Tax have similar responsibilities; however, you will be out more often engaging face-to-face with the firms' clients in Audit. Choosing Audit, you will need strong people and communication skills. Tax generally requires less interpersonal and client-facing work and entails more reading and research. The interviewers would like to know the reasoning behind your preference. Express your choice in a positive manner that still uplifts the value of the other. For instance, if you chose Audit over Tax, it's crucial that you do not put a career path in Tax down in any way.

"I chose tax over audit for a few reasons. First of all, I researched the differences between the two online and was interested in tax. I also reached out to someone who works in tax to hear about what their day-to-day was like compared to someone in audit. After doing research and talking with people, I decided that tax would be the best fit for me."

Why do you want to start your career with EY?

"I want to start a career with EY for numerous reasons; however, the most personal and compelling are the organizations' commitment to building a better working world and the sterling reputation of EY as a whole. When I attended a university recruiting event last year, I spoke with an EY recruiter. The conversation was so encouraging and informative; it's an exchange that I will never forget. Since that day, I have spent much time researching and getting to know EY and was impressed to see the incredible efforts the company places into helping its interns succeed by providing endless learning opportunities. I appreciate the diverse and inclusive culture that EY has built. It's clear that, with this firm, interns are highly supported and encouraged to become the best version of themselves. The ultimate goal is to start my career and continue years ahead into the future with such a supportive and socially mindful company. This firm is known for hiring new graduates and molding them into future leaders. The first step in my career is the most important, and I would like nothing more than to join EY at the start of my career and stay for the long term."

Big 4 firms like Ernst and Young place significant effort and resources into finding the best students to potentially intern and, eventually, earn full-time positions. When asked why you want to join Ernst and Young, the interviewers are looking for evidence that you have enthusiasm and interest in EY and the role of an Intern. They want to see that you believe in the company's mission and values and are ready to make a specific contribution. Your response should also highlight the match between this interning opportunity and your career goals. Think about the aspects of the organization that stood out to you when you first read the tasks and responsibilities of an Ernst and Young Intern. Take note of how you felt when you first met with an EY recruiter at a university recruiting event. Start by listing the benefits of interning for EY. Think about the factors that impress you the most, such as the firms' D&I efforts, the endless top-employer lists it has earned a spot on, or a current newsworthy event where the firm has received accolades for standing out from the rest. Perhaps it's the company's values, involvement in creating a better working world, or the growth opportunities it provides its team members at every stage of their career. The answer to this question should be precise and custom to EY, so be sure to do your research and form a highly tailored response.

"I want to start my career with EY because of the people I met at EY. During events, I enjoyed the people I talked to because they gave me a real insight into what the company is actually like. Through the research I have done I felt like my values in a company align well with EY. They care about helping their interns grow and want to help them be successful in their careers."

What are your career goals after you obtain your CPA?

"After completing my CPA designation, my immediate goal is to secure a full-time position with Ernst and Young, earning a spot as an Associate Consultant. I aim to progress through various Consulting positions with EY, eventually earning my way to an Associate Director role, then Partner. During that time, I will continue to grow essential skills and knowledge in management consulting. I will also expand my experience with ERP and Finance transformation implementation initiatives and projects. My passion for audit, participating in client engagements, and natural leadership tendencies will help me reach my professional goals."

The leaders at Ernst and Young want to know your plans once you have achieved your professional designation. By understanding your career goals, EY can determine whether an internship with their firm will provide mutual benefit. Also, when your leaders understand your career goals, they can help you to achieve them! Discuss a couple of stand-out career goals that are important to you for the short and long term.

"Once I complete my CPA, I would love to work full-time at EY. I would like to continue to grow in my positions at EY and someday become a partner. I know this goal is hard to achieve, however, I am willing to put in hard work and continue to push myself to grow as a professional. I believe it is key to make good connections, be a strong communicator, and be a lifelong learner."

Walk us through your experience interacting with senior executives at EY or other organizations.

"During my summer internship, I worked alongside a variety of senior leaders. This internship helped me gain a tremendous amount of confidence in presenting my ideas in meetings when called on to participate. At the end of my term, I delivered a presentation on my key takeaways from the internship experience. This presentation was to a senior leadership team of five. I received positive feedback on my presentation performance and my overall performance during the 6-week term. The leaders appreciated that I made an effort to connect with them and absorb their mentorship. Should I be chosen for this EY internship, I will push initial nerves aside and take every opportunity to learn from my leaders through professional interactions and graciously accepting any guidance they offer."

You are new to your career, and an internship at Ernst and Young will give you valuable exposure to working alongside the firms' senior leaders. The leaders you will be learning from will be among the most skilled in the industry. For these reasons, it's vital that you are comfortable interacting and communicating with those you consider to be senior leadership in the management consulting industry. Describe your experience and comfort level interacting with senior team members and show enthusiasm for the opportunity to receive this critical exposure to your industry's most notable leaders.

EY hires thousands of college students every year for our internship and entry-level positions. Why should we choose you?

"I understand Ernst and Young looks for Interns who believe that mindset is just as important as skillset. In addition to holding exceptional grades and showcasing a consistent dedication to my educational success, I also show empathy to others. I am inclusive and bring an open mind to every situation. I have boundless energy and will bring an endless curiosity to this internship by seeking learning opportunities at every turn. As a creative thinker, I naturally question the status quo. I am unafraid to jump into new tasks, make mistakes, bounce back, and learn from them. I will come to EY ready to absorb the valuable training and experiences my leaders are eager to provide. Should EY choose me for this internship, I will bring a strong sense of pride to my work and help amplify the goals of this firm."

When asked 'why you' interview questions, it's common to answer in a way that focuses primarily on your desires as a job seeker. However, when approaching this type of question, it's essential that you consider the benefit to Ernst and Young if they choose you for this internship position. You are pitching yourself, and the interviewers should receive clear, stand-out reasons why you are the top choice Intern. Take some time to think about your best hard and soft skills and consider how they benefit EY. Consider the factors that this firm looks for when choosing internship placements. EY asks that you 'Bring us your open mind, your energy, your definition of career success. Your passion amplifies our purpose, so together we can build a better working world.'

"EY should hire me because I am great at adapting to new experiences and have a drive to continue to learn. I want to be the best version of myself and leave a meaningful impact on everything I do. I continuously look to bring new ideas to the table and enjoy collaborating with others. Through my wide variety of experiences, I am inclusive and embrace new perspectives."

If chosen for an EY client-serving internship, you will gain exposure to our business and world-class clients. Talk about one strength you are excited to bring to our teams and clients.

"The greatest strength that I am excited to bring to EY is my natural leadership ability. I love to encourage others to see a goal through to the end, no matter how challenging. My leadership abilities came through when I was the captain of my university basketball team. I encouraged the team even when we were exhausted or knew that we would likely lose the game. My leadership abilities will be a significant benefit at EY as I will uplift my fellow interns and encourage my teammates as we hone our skills through this challenging and rewarding experience."

If you are awarded a client-serving internship with EY, you will gain career-changing exposure to its business practices and clients. You will have the opportunity to receive coaching, guidance, and mentorship from some of the most talented consulting professionals in the world. You will gain and improve many essential skills, such as networking, presenting, and assisting with audits and even tax planning. Considering the incredible opportunity ahead, the interviewers want to know which strength you are most excited to contribute. There are different types of strengths, including: - Hard skills such as technical expertise or project management skills. - Soft skills such as time management and critical thinking. - Personality traits such as being adaptable, kind, and self-sufficient. - Knowledge-based skills such as speaking multiple languages.Talk about the strength you are most excited to bring to EY and speak specifically about how this strength will benefit the firm should you be chosen for an internship.

"One strength I am excited to bring to EY is my honesty. I believe that is essential because it shows you are reliable and that people can trust you. Working with a team or client, you want to be someone they can trust and count on. I am not afraid to admit if I made a mistake because I can use it as a learning opportunity and grow from it."

How do you prioritize multiple tasks when they all seem urgent?

"It's essential to me that I am organized and efficient as a student and as an intern. When triaging my assignments, tasks, and responsibilities, I used the MOSCOW method, which I learned in one of my courses last year. I look at each task and ask myself if it's a Must-have, a Should-have, a Could-have, or a Won't-have. Using the MOSCOW method, once I have decided which tasks are most urgent, I enter them into ClickUp, a project management app that I use every day. The app allows me to track my to-do's, holds my documents, access my email, and enter events and reminders. I also track time and goal-based progress. Most important is to keep my mindset clear and positive when faced with multiple deadlines and responsibilities. Rest assured, should I be chosen as an EY Intern, I will apply this prioritization and organization method to ensure my deliverables are met on time."

As an Intern with Ernst and Young, you will be helping the firms' teams to succeed during the busiest seasons. You will assist teams to reach goals by supporting them through a variety of tasks and responsibilities. The expectations could sometimes feel overwhelming, and you may not know how to prioritize and triage your work. For this reason, the interviewers are looking for evidence of your ability to prioritize numerous tasks while still ensuring that you deliver high-quality work. Walk the interviewers through your process for prioritization by mentioning the tools you lean on to help you stay on track. You can discuss your prioritization thought process as well.

"It is key to stay organized and plan ahead for me. I always put all the major due dates on my calendar so I get reminders when tasks' due dates are coming up. I also create a list of all the tasks and if they are more time-sensitive than others. This helps me figure out the order I need to get everything done so I don't miss a deadline. I have found this the most effective method for me."

Tell us about a time when you went out of your way to help someone.

"Our university basketball team made regionals this year. We were playing our final game when my opponent tripped on the court and sprained their ankle. I was the only one to notice the fall, so I helped the player get up and to the sidelines. My coach was impressed that I was so aware and willing to help someone from the opposite team. It felt nice to be kind and do the right thing. After the game, both coaches thanked me for my sportsmanship. Helping others comes naturally to me, and I am conscious of extending the same kindness to others as I would like to receive. I understand that Ernst and Young invests significant resources of all kinds to find interns who will uphold the values and culture of EY, which includes actively embracing diversity and inclusive action and taking steps to help build a better working world. Should I be awarded an EY internship, I will continue to exude emotional intelligence and act in empathy and kindness."

Ernst and Young express a passion for providing the tools, learning, and flexibility interns need to start their careers off strong. The firm does everything possible to set you up for success, and now, they want to know that you are the type of person to do the same for others. Think of how you have impacted others by going out of your way to help someone complete a task, overcome an obstacle, or reach a goal. These actions tie in with empathy and emotional intelligence, two traits that EY recruiters keenly look for when awarding internships. To deliver an answer to this behavioral-based interview question, try using the STAR answer method, an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Using STAR, tell a story of when you went out of your way to help someone. Keep your example professional and related to work or an experience you encountered while attending school, volunteering, or participating in a group event.

Talk about a fascinating topic you have been following recently.

"I diligently read EY's Megatrends reports and articles and wholeheartedly agree that by understanding megatrends, we learn to see opportunities that others don't. The most recent contribution I read was on the transformational technologies that we should have on our radar. These technologies include quantum computing, brain-machine interfaces, space commercialization, and transportation drones. The article summarized these technologies very well and expressed the idea that it's critically important to identify and understand disruptive forces that have the potential to transform business models and spawn entirely new industries."

Ernst and Young state that the right conversations can empower finance transformation strategies. The firm also expresses that being in the know on megatrends allows its team members to see opportunities where others do not. The interviewers are looking for evidence that you have a keen interest in knowing critical topics that will impact your career, the firm, and its clients. It's essential to show that you have the interest and awareness of the finance industry and other critical economic and social factors that impact financial outcomes. Choose one topic that has caught your attention recently and discuss why you believe it's an important topic that deserves attention.

"I think a fascinating topic is how technology advancements and AI are affecting jobs and how things operate."

What did you find most interesting when you visited the EY Newsroom?

"I keep a keen eye on the EY Newsroom, reading the latest press releases often. It's exciting to think that I could be part of a firm like EY that provides its clients and the public with critical insights. I recently read a press release on consumers and how 69% of consumers surveyed said they expect companies to solve sustainability issues. I found this fascinating that most consumers said they would pay more for sustainable products and services, yet we don't necessarily see this reflected in the economy. I found the press release very informative, and it genuinely made me think about the future of industries such as retail."

As an aspiring EY Intern, it's vital that you stay up to date on the latest news from Ernst and Young. The EY website contains a 'Newsroom' section to find the latest stories and updates on Ernst and Young. The firm highlights featured press releases, EY in the news, and even its latest Tweets. Before your interview, take the time to explore the EY Newsroom. Be prepared to discuss a feature that you found most interesting and talk about why this feature caught your interest. Be sure to show enthusiasm for the firm and the way its actions are helping to build a better world.

"Something I found interesting in the EY newsroom was that they were recognized by Microsoft for collaboration in security and compliance offerings. EY organization is awarded for providing clients with innovative security solutions by leveraging Microsoft technology"

What will you do today to build a better working world?

"I greatly appreciate that EY believes that the highest performing teams come when there is diversity amongst those teams. Diversity of thought and perspective and critical to a successful work environment. To help EY build a better working world, I will bring my unique points of view while also embracing the different points of view that come from others. I will support Ernst and Young's D&I policies and efforts by genuinely embrace everyone in the organization and treating everyone with the utmost respect. I will show cultural understanding and help my co-workers to build their competency and understanding of others. I also plan to support the firm's anti-discrimination policies by continually educating myself on emerging inclusion programs and practices. EY has earned a place on the top of numerous company lists for its diversity and inclusion efforts, and I will wholeheartedly support its continued efforts to remain one of the most inclusive companies in existence today."

Ernst and Young want to build a better working world which is why the firm invests a significant amount of time, energy, and financial resources into its diversity and inclusion efforts. EY understands that by investing in D&I, the business, its clients, and its people benefit. Now, it's time to discuss with the interviewer how you will participate in EY's efforts to build a better working world. Be as specific as possible and show enthusiasm for the work environment the firm has created and the example it exudes to other companies.

"Think, act, and lead globally, and embrace diversity through my experiences from DEI training and when I studied abroad. I will also truly care about the people I am working with because it will create a better work environment for everyone."

What does inclusion mean to you?

"To gain the benefits of a diverse workplace, a company must also deploy intentional inclusion efforts. This effort means actively creating a culture that is welcoming to all, regardless of differences. Inclusion means that everyone feels like an equal team member; everyone receives the same resources and opportunities for growth. This deliberate effort is what separates inclusion from diversity. As President of my campus' Accounting Club, I recently decided to host an industry panel of accountants. This event was open to all Accounting students and faculty. To ensure that a range of groups was included and felt represented, I searched for five diverse panel speakers, all with different experiences and backgrounds. Including many different types of speakers made for a diverse panel and the attendees felt that they could relate to at least one of them, which was my ultimate goal. I felt very proud hosting this event, and felt it set a strong example for inclusivity in the field of accounting."

Simply put, inclusion means that everyone, regardless of their abilities, needs, or background, is treated fairly and equally. In the workplace, this means achieving an environment that presents an equal opportunity for all. Inclusion is a necessary component of any diversity effort because, without inclusion efforts, not all voices and perspectives are heard. Provide an example of what inclusion means to you and why you believe it's a critical component of every workplace environment.

"Inclusion means listening to others' ideas and trying to look from other perspectives. A diverse workplace makes everyone feel like an equal, not below or less important than others."

EY chooses interns from a broad base of educational majors. How will your education and knowledge benefit EY?

"I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Accounting. My coursework has a heavy focus on economics, finance, and business which will allow me to contribute to audits and help to evaluate financial reports. I have also learned about regulatory compliance and risk management, allowing me to add value to my team as a busy season intern. My knowledge of receivables and other financial-related administrative tasks will help me approach the confirmation process and begin completing confirmations. In addition to the knowledge I have gained in university so far, I am confident that my knowledge base will grow every day as an EY intern."

Although Ernst and Young is a firm focused on accounting, taxes, audits, and other finance-related matters, the company branches out and chooses its interns from a broad base of education majors. These majors include accounting and business programs and students majoring in computer science, finance, engineering, law, and more. The interviewers want to know how the knowledge and experiences you have gained from your post-secondary education will positively affect EY. Walk the interviewers through your formal educational experience and highlight the main points that you believe will benefit the firm during your internship and into the long-term, should you be hired on full time as an EY employee after graduation.

"My education will benefit me because I have learned how to manage my time and work effectively. I have studied hard and that is evident in my grades. I want to continue to learn and that will benefit EY because I can continue to adapt and be at the level they need me to be."

Why did you choose the university you are attending, and are you satisfied with your decision so far?

"I chose XYZ University due to the small class sizes and their reputation for a strong business program. I also knew that the CPA designation approves of XYZ's University's accounting program. Therefore all my courses would be eligible for me to start the CPA stream upon graduation. Many XYZ University alumni I spoke with work for a Big 4 firm, another reason for my choice. All of these factors combined helped me to determine XYZ University as a top school for building future talent in the management consulting, accounting, tax, and finance space."

The interviewers would like to know if the university you are currently attending is one that you are happy with and if you are absorbing as much as possible from your post-secondary education. Be prepared to discuss what attracted you to your particular university and why. Suppose you had multiple choices of what school to attend. In that case, the reasons behind your final selection will be of interest to the interviewers. It will provide them with further insight into your decision-making process and the factors you value the most. Keep in mind that the response you provide will be a factor in determining if you are a fit for EY. For instance, if you mention that you chose your university because your best friends were going there, this would not be as compelling as expressing your keen interest in the university's educational offering.

"I chose the University of Alabama because I was drawn to a big school with many opportunities for its students to grow. The business school and clubs I could join would help with networking. It was also important to me to have a good balance. I am very satisfied with my decision because it checks the boxes of everything I want and need."

When have you shown great integrity?

"I am a member of the Student Finance Club. Last semester we had an opportunity to participate in a faculty-led project called the 'Student Investment Fund.' The fund was a tool used to help us learn about investing. The club received a sum of money to invest in the stock market. The club's investment decisions were supported through the consultation of our faculty and a couple of volunteer business professionals from the community. I was voted in as Treasurer, leaving me accountable for the funds. I showed a tremendous amount of integrity by being highly transparent and accessible. I reported to the committee three days per week, outlining where every cent had gone and how funds came back in. At the end of the project, we accounted for every cent. I was very proud of my diligence, and it felt wonderful to have the other club members, the faculty, and other stakeholders trust me in the role of Treasurer."

Having integrity means 'possessing the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.' You can display integrity through honesty and consistent moral values. The interviewers at Ernst and Young want to see how you have exercised this virtue in your life by allowing integrity to lead you to make the right choice.This question is behavioral-based, so the interviewers are looking for a specific story-based example of a time when integrity guided your actions. Your example can be from either school, work, sports, volunteer, or everyday life. Deliver this story using the STAR answer method. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result.

"In my sophomore year, I was a part of the dance marathon- bamathon committee. It fell on the same weekend as parents' weekend. I stuck with my commitment to the organization and did my job with my full effort and ability. I was honest with them about the situation and we came up with a plan."

What do you expect to encounter as a busy season EY Intern?

"As a busy season Intern, I am aware the I will often be working overtime in full support of the team. I have reached out to former EY Interns, and the responsibilities mentioned the most include completing confirmations and helping with financial statement tie-outs. I understand that completion confirmations require keen business administration and organizational skills. As an EY Intern, I may also be spending time tying out the footnotes and disclosures in financial statements. To succeed in this task, I will offer incredible attention to detail and showcase excellent time management skills. I also expect there will be a great focus on helping the engagement team. For instance, I might order meals and snacks for the team while they focus on their work late in the day or even in the early morning hours. This responsibility means listening to the preferences of others and ensuring that I quickly meet their needs. I am certainly up for the challenge and am excited to learn more about what it's like to be a busy season Intern for EY."

Interns with Ernst and Young help teams get through the busiest seasons. The interviewers want to know that you are aware of the expectations placed on an EY Intern. The environment is supportive, and EY will provide you with incredible opportunities; however, the work is challenging and demanding. According to past Interns, some of the most common tasks you will be accountable for include: - Completing confirmations - Financial statement tie-outs - Supporting the engagement team - Working overtimeThis list is just a sample of the multiple accountabilities you will have during your Ernst and Young internship. Express your awareness of your responsibilities, and be sure to show enthusiasm for this opportunity.

"Long hours, commitment to work, asking questions, making mistakes but being honest and fixing them, learning. attention to detail. time management. using it as a learning opportunity."

What did you gain from participating in EY's Emerging Leaders Program?

"Attending EY's Emerging Leaders Program gave me a very positive glimpse into the distinctive culture of Ernst and Young. I learned even more about the EY values and how I can best emulate them as an intern and later as a full-time team member. The connections that I made over that weekend were incredible, and I felt supported in my decision to pursue an internship with EY. The Associates I met during this time helped describe what day-to-day life was like in the office. I also gained a clear snapshot of what I could expect to absorb during an EY internship. I am grateful for the experience and look forward to pursuing an internship, and other future opportunities, with EY."

Every year, EY holds an annual conference called the Ernst and Young Emerging Leaders Program. During the program, students learn about the inner workings of EY. They also learn about the roles available in their area. Students compete for a spot through a video interview and then move onto an on-campus interview. The competition is competitive, and typically, students need to be enrolled in an undergraduate business or accounting program and be interested in pursuing their CPA designation. The successful student applicants must be available for a summer internship or a full-time opportunity the following year. Recruiters look for mature candidates who show enthusiasm for a career with Ernst and Young. If you are one of the individuals chosen to attend the Emerging Leaders Program, it's a great sign that the EY Recruiters see you as a top-notch potential candidate for their firm. EY's Emerging Leaders' Program is considered an 'externship.' An externship program is commonly offered by all Big 4 firms, as they are a 1-3 day opportunity for students to gain exposure to the firms and learn about the firms' culture and the expectations of carving out a career with the firm. During the program, you will also learn how to advance into an internship and eventually a full-time offer from Ernst and Young. You are not limited to attend only EY's externship. Big 4 firms fully expect that you will explore other opportunities. While EY has the Emerging Leaders Program, PwC holds an externship program called 'Elevate,' Deloitte's externship is 'NextGen,' and KPMG's program is called 'Leadership Edge.'If you were an EY Emerging Leaders Program participant, be prepared to talk to the interviewers about what you gained from their externship. When discussing this experience, let your enthusiasm for an internship with EY shine through!

Do you have an interest in participating in the EY Challenge?

"I have heard amazing stories from previous EY Challenge competitors and event volunteers and see the challenge as an opportunity like no other Big 4 offers students and recent graduates. Since I started forming my application to EY, I have watched numerous YouTube videos on EY culture and opportunities. The EY Challenge draws an incredible amount of attention and generates so much positive energy. I would love to collaborate with my university's brightest students and have the chance to compete for accolades on behalf of my school. In fact, I have registered to attend the next EY Challenge information session coming up this October."

Ernst and Young hosts the 'EY Challenge,' an event the firm describes as a 'dynamic, winner-take-all business competition, unlike anything you've ever experienced before.' Bringing together top students from across the country, these individuals compete in a highly interactive pitch competition. Forming a team of four students, groups interact as part of a team to prepare a business pitch for a mystery product. Each team then presents its pitch to a panel of EY judges and peers. For many, the EY Challenge is an incredible creative opportunity and a chance to have your personality shine through, capturing the attention of EY recruiters and leaders. Knowing this information - of course, participating in the EY Challenge would be an incredible opportunity!Express to the interviewers that you are interested in the EY Challenge and the opportunities this event represents for you as a potential EY Intern.

"Yes- when researching EY I saw something about it and thought that would be a great opportunity and experience. It seems very interesting and would be an amazing experience to collaborate with other bright individuals."

When faced with a problem, how do you respond?

"I thrive under pressure. When facing a time-sensitive situation, I light up and get down to business. During my summer internship at Company XYZ, the Controller unexpectedly came down with pneumonia on a week where we had a major client presentation to complete. The Controller, whom I worked closely with, sent me what they had prepared and asked me to finish building the presentation. As an Intern, the task was out of my wheelhouse, but I adapted quickly. I completed the presentation in Keynote, and the Controller was thrilled with how I organized the information and made the presentation more visually appealing. I make an even stronger creative impact when I have little time to overthink the problem and must jump in and tackle the issue. Should I be chosen for an internship, I will confidently support the EY engagement team and will actively contribute to the problem-solving process."

Proper problem-solving takes practice, experience, and confidence. While interning with Ernst and Young, you will come across problems, big and small. In these situations, EY leaders expect your participation in the problem-solving process. The interviewers want to see evidence that you are a strong problem-solver who will contribute rather than shy away presented with a roadblock. A great approach to answering this question is to provide a specific story-based example of when you faced a problem and responded well. Your example can be from either school, work, sports, volunteer, or everyday life. Deliver this story using the STAR answer method. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result.

"Take a minute to analyze the issue and think of different options on how to solve it. I like a challenge and don't shy away because it is difficult."

Talk about a time when you had to convince someone that your idea was best. How did you get the person to agree?

"Last semester, as we were preparing for a final group presentation, one of our group members thought our presentation could stand out from the others if we added humor. This group member thought that adding a funny joke at the presentation's start would lighten the mood and make the presentation flow well. I felt that adding a splash of humor at the end of the presentation would leave the class and the professor in good spirits, making the most impact. To support my stance, I pulled up a Seinfeld episode on my phone and showed a scene where Jerry said something amusing, the audience laughed, and he left the room, leaving them wanting more! Once the group member saw this clip, they understood where I was coming from and agreed that we should insert humor at the end of the presentation. We told our funny accounting anecdote at the end, received lots of laughs, and wrapped up our presentation on a high note. We earned an A on our assignment, and I believe part of that grade was because we wrapped up our presentation on a memorable, upbeat tone."

Many times in a group setting, consensus can be challenging to achieve. CPA firms like Ernst and Young are looking for team members who are not bullies but can use the power of persuasion when required. The sign of a true leader is possessing the ability to work as part of a team, listen to all stakeholders, and value the contribution and opinion of others while ensuring that the firm delivers the best possible outcome to its clients. Approach this behavioral-based interview question by providing a story-based example of when you had to convince someone that your idea was the best choice. Your example can be from either school, work, sports, volunteer, or everyday life. Deliver this story using the STAR answer method. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result.

"When working on a group project- GBA, figuring out foreign laws and how to go about presenting that explaining how my reason is the most efficient and clear."

How do you handle stress at school?

"Last semester, I took five classes while working a part-time job. I also volunteered ten hours per week as a Peer Mentor through the university's Advising Center. Through all these responsibilities and the pressures that came with them, I kept my GPA above 3.7. I did not miss a shift at work and attended every volleyball game and practice. I was a helpful Peer Mentor and received accolades from the Advising Center for my dedication to my fellow peers. I balanced stress by taking structured breaks and prioritizing my tasks each week. Overall, my semester was a success, and I learned the importance of proper stress management. As an EY Intern, I will engage the same approach, ensuring that I deliver exceptional work while maintaining my studies and keeping active participation in my extracurricular and volunteer commitments."

As an EY Intern and later, as a full-time team member of the firm, you will be balancing multiple tasks and deadlines. The interviewers would like to know if you can appropriately handle the stresses you face as a busy student. Your ability to manage stressful situations with poise and professionalism is a good indicator that you will gracefully handle the pressures you face while working at Ernst and Young. Provide the interviewers with evidence of your stress-management abilities. Consider telling a brief story of a time when you faced a high-stress situation and came through successfully. You can deliver this story using the STAR answer method. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result.

"I write out what I need to do, and make a plan for what needs to be done based on due dates and the length of time it will take me to complete. I start studying early and break up the work into sections so I don't get burnt out."

"(Past) Two years ago I chose to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business at UCLA, where I became fascinated with corporate accounting. (Present) Since beginning university, I have maintained a GPA of 3.7 and have made the Dean's list every year. I have gained considerable confidence in my knowledge of business accounting, audits, and taxation during this time. I am now ready to pursue my career path with a Big 4 firm confidently. (Future) I am seeking a summer internship within EY, specifically within Audit. My long-term goal is to work toward my CPA designation after graduation. This internship opportunity with Ernst and Young is a terrific opportunity to leverage my career and help me achieve my goal of successfully passing my CPA exam on the first attempt. The EY mission and corporate integrity align with my core passions and personal strengths, such as inclusivity and leadership in action. It would be an honor to grow my career with this esteemed organization."

Recruiters at Ernst and Young may ask this question, which is another version of 'Tell us about yourself.' This question is one of the most challenging interview questions to approach because it's open-ended. It is not easy to know where to begin and where to end! A great place to start is to understand the reasoning behind the question. Primarily, the interviewers will use this question as an icebreaker. This question allows the interviewers to get to know you professionally and gain a glimpse into your personality and how it may be a fit for EY. One helpful approach to forming your response is the Past, Present, Future framework. - Past: Provide a brief overview of your educational journey. - Present: Discuss your current situation as it relates to this internship opportunity. - Future: Talk about your career aspirations and how this internship (and future career opportunities) fits.

"I have been at Alabama since freshman year, 4.0/president's list, involved in clubs, seeking a tax internship, and have a goal to pass the CPA and get my master's."

EY Intern Interview Questions

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1. Talk about your most outstanding personal achievement.
2. What questions do you have for us?
3. Tell us about a time when you took on a leadership role.
4. Tell us about a time when you had to adapt to significant change. How did you cope?
5. Tell us about a time when you were in danger of missing a deadline. What did you do?
6. Tell us about a time when you received constructive feedback. How did you respond?
7. Talk about a time you had a conflict with a team member and what you did to resolve it.
8. Tell us about a time you showed empathy to others.
9. Why did you choose Audit over Tax?
10. Why do you want to start your career with EY?
11. What are your career goals after you obtain your CPA?
12. Walk us through your experience interacting with senior executives at EY or other organizations.
13. EY hires thousands of college students every year for our internship and entry-level positions. Why should we choose you?
14. If chosen for an EY client-serving internship, you will gain exposure to our business and world-class clients. Talk about one strength you are excited to bring to our teams and clients.
15. How do you prioritize multiple tasks when they all seem urgent?
16. Tell us about a time when you went out of your way to help someone.
17. Talk about a fascinating topic you have been following recently.
18. What did you find most interesting when you visited the EY Newsroom?
19. What will you do today to build a better working world?
20. What does inclusion mean to you?
21. EY chooses interns from a broad base of educational majors. How will your education and knowledge benefit EY?
22. Why did you choose the university you are attending, and are you satisfied with your decision so far?
23. When have you shown great integrity?
24. What do you expect to encounter as a busy season EY Intern?
25. What did you gain from participating in EY's Emerging Leaders Program?
26. Do you have an interest in participating in the EY Challenge?
27. When faced with a problem, how do you respond?
28. Talk about a time when you had to convince someone that your idea was best. How did you get the person to agree?
29. How do you handle stress at school?
30. Tell us your story.

EY Intern Interview Questions

1. Talk about your most outstanding personal achievement.

2. What questions do you have for us?

3. Tell us about a time when you took on a leadership role.

4. Tell us about a time when you had to adapt to significant change. How did you cope?

5. Tell us about a time when you were in danger of missing a deadline. What did you do?

6. Tell us about a time when you received constructive feedback. How did you respond?

7. Talk about a time you had a conflict with a team member and what you did to resolve it.

8. Tell us about a time you showed empathy to others.

9. Why did you choose Audit over Tax?

10. Why do you want to start your career with EY?

11. What are your career goals after you obtain your CPA?

12. Walk us through your experience interacting with senior executives at EY or other organizations.

13. EY hires thousands of college students every year for our internship and entry-level positions. Why should we choose you?

14. If chosen for an EY client-serving internship, you will gain exposure to our business and world-class clients. Talk about one strength you are excited to bring to our teams and clients.

15. How do you prioritize multiple tasks when they all seem urgent?

16. Tell us about a time when you went out of your way to help someone.

17. Talk about a fascinating topic you have been following recently.

18. What did you find most interesting when you visited the EY Newsroom?

19. What will you do today to build a better working world?

20. What does inclusion mean to you?

21. EY chooses interns from a broad base of educational majors. How will your education and knowledge benefit EY?

22. Why did you choose the university you are attending, and are you satisfied with your decision so far?

23. When have you shown great integrity?

24. What do you expect to encounter as a busy season EY Intern?

25. What did you gain from participating in EY's Emerging Leaders Program?

26. Do you have an interest in participating in the EY Challenge?

27. When faced with a problem, how do you respond?

28. Talk about a time when you had to convince someone that your idea was best. How did you get the person to agree?

29. How do you handle stress at school?

30. Tell us your story.