-Extreme lack of staffing at the senior and manager levels. This means: a) seniors and managers still left at the firm are intensely overworked (65 hours/week during the off season and 75+ during busy season) and b) there are fewer available mentors for the new and experienced staff. Many projects have staff working directly with senior managers and partners because so many managers and seniors have quit.
-Extremely long hours. Even during the "off season," 80% of people will be in the office from 8-7, and 25% from 8 - 8. Expect 12 hour days year round.
-Disregard for personal life/time. I've taken 5 vacation days in a year and had to fight for the time off. Managers will ALWAYS complain when you are taking time off.
-The firm will take everything you give it. If you work 14 hour days and never take any vacation, no one will bat an eye. You'll probably be given more work.
-Pay is mediocre after the first few years relative to the number of hours you're working.
-Extremely competitive. Jockeying for performance bonuses starts at the senior levels and continues through the ranks. Politics, gossip, and back-talk are intense.
-NO TUITION REIMBURSEMENT FOR GRADUATE STUDIES/ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATION (beyond your CPA). All of the other Big 4 in Minneapolis will at least cover up to the IRS allowed tax-free tuition reimbursement ($5,250). EY does not pay for any of it. If you're planning to get a CFA, MBA, MBT, etc, look elsewhere or plan on getting scholarships, loans, or paying for it yourself.
**Overall: Go in with your eyes wide open. Great place to start, bad place to stay.
