This summer, I’m taking a breath — but also getting ready for what’s next.

With my EY placement as a Technology Consultant starting this September and final year not far off, this summer feels like the perfect time to pause, recharge, and prepare. It’s probably the last real break I’ll get before things shift into full-time work mode, so I’m trying to make the most of it — balancing rest with progress.

Here’s how I’m spending the next few months before the chaos kicks in again.

Gearing Up for My Placement Year

Knowing I’ll be working full-time soon makes this summer a great opportunity to sharpen some key skills and feel more confident heading into my EY role. I’ve already developed a solid base in SQL and data analytics, but I want to deepen that knowledge and get more hands-on with tools like Python, Power BI, and data visualisation platforms.

I’ve been exploring online courses through platforms like Coursera and DataCamp — nothing too intense, just steady learning a few hours a week. I’m especially focusing on the kinds of tools I might use in client projects, like dashboards, reporting tools, and data workflows in real business contexts.

This isn’t about being perfect before I start — it’s just about being prepared enough to hit the ground running.

Looking Ahead: Life After University

While placement is my main focus right now, I’ve also started thinking about my longer-term path — especially graduate schemes.

I’m interested in roles where technology meets finance, like data-driven strategy, digital transformation, or innovation within the banking and investment space. My placement will give me real-world experience in tech consulting, but I also want to keep building the skills and awareness that will help me stand out in future graduate applications.

I’m updating my CV, drafting early answers for typical interview questions, and reflecting on what I learned during last year’s placement application process. Things like:

• Tailoring my CV to specific roles
• Practising for assessment centres and online tests
• Improving how I explain my technical skills in competency based interviews
• And yes… never leaving applications or online assessment to the night before the deadline again.

This time, I want to go in with more clarity. I’m aiming for roles that combine technology, data, and finance — like data analytics in banking, fintech strategy, or innovation roles in investment firms.

Learning, But Also Living

It’s not all work and prep — I’m also making time to enjoy myself this summer. Whether it’s hanging out with friends, getting a pint, or going karting on the weekends, I’m trying to soak up these moments and make memories before everything changes.

I’ll be relocating from Manchester to London for my placement year, so this summer has been about appreciating the little things — the people, the laughs, the freedom — before starting a whole new chapter in a new city. It’s not about doing everything; it’s about being present and making it count.

Final Thoughts

This summer isn’t about doing it all — it’s about finding balance. I’m using the time to reset, learn, and get ready for what’s next, without burning out.

Whether you’re preparing for a placement, thinking about grad schemes, or just figuring things out — take the pressure off. There’s no one right way to spend summer. Do what helps you grow.

Written by Pak Yin Chan, a BSc ITMB student at The University of Manchester

Related