“Networking with EY”

networking with ey

On Monday September 11th, I went to a meeting where EY professionals gave us insight to how things work at EY and answered questions. At first, I was hesitant in going to the meeting for two reasons: 1. You had to dress business casual and I decided to wear sweats and sneakers; 2. I had no idea what this was for. However, I sucked it up and entered the room after standing outside for several minutes. I immediately felt out of place being surrounded by people who were wearing ties and blouses. 

When the panel of EY professionals started describing what they do and how EY is a great organization, I noticed how they spoke almost completely of accounting, finances, and similar topics. However, since I am interested in marketing, I wasn't sure if anything being said would be useful. I was wrong. I learned so much from the panelists and the experiences they shared with the group made me want to major in accounting and join EY. One thing that stuck with me was what John said about saying yes to things. Second chances don't come by often, so take advantage of the opportunities that come your way instead of turning them down. 

When all the questions were answered and the EY professionals said everything they wanted to say, we were left to get food and talk to others. I began talking to upperclassmen who answered my questions on if AKDP had people in marketing, since all I've been hearing since I entered the room was anything but that. I learned that there's a good handful of people who major in marketing and that the two main people I should talk to are abroad in South Korea and China (?). However, I was directed to someone who is in marketing (sorry, I forgot her name) and asked her some questions. I spoke with a few others and finally left the meeting.

If I'm being completely honest, I only attended this event because of Freshman Seminar, but I am so grateful for it. I would never have thought to attend something like this, since I am not comfortable in social situations (especially the networking factor). Now, I am a bit more open to going to events similar to this, and I even went to a MOB (Marketers of Baruch) GIM the day after. I can see myself going to meetings more often in the future because of this FRO assignment.