Navigating Tech Internships: A St. John’s Grad Student Shares His Path to EY
As a college student passionate about tech, AI, or data science, you’ve probably wondered: How do you land that first big internship? The endless applications, tough interviews, and uncertainty can feel overwhelming. But what if that internship wasn’t just a step toward your degree, but a transformative experience that reshapes your career—and the way you think about technology?
That’s precisely the story of Tomas Santos Yciano, a fast-track Bachelor of Science (B.S.)/Master of Science (M.S.) Computer Science and Data Science student at St. John’s University. In this Q&A, Tomas shares how he landed a coveted internship at Ernst & Young (EY), offers career advice, and reflects on the lessons he’s learned as a Launch Intern in Technology Consulting.
I. Tomas’s Journey to EY
How did your journey to becoming an EY Launch Intern begin, and what motivated you to pursue this opportunity?
My path to EY started unexpectedly during my first year at St. John’s University. I initially had my sights set on working at a “FAANG” company. However, my first significant step came through a résumé workshop hosted by EY and the St. John’s Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) student chapter. The event opened my eyes to EY’s values, career opportunities, and the potential for growth at the firm. This is where I first considered EY for my internship, leading to my application for the EY Launch Internship program.
What is FAANG?
FAANG refers to five of the biggest tech companies in the US: Meta (formerly Facebook); Amazon; Apple; Netflix; and Alphabet (Google’s parent company). These companies are leaders in the tech world and are often seen as dream employers for those pursuing careers in technology.
Can you share details about the EY Launch Internship application and interview process?
The process was a bit nerve-wracking, but exciting. After the workshop, I refined my résumé and submitted my application just before the deadline. To my surprise, I received an invitation for two behavioral interviews on my birthday! The first interview went better than expected—it became a conversation about technology consulting, which made me feel confident.
The second interview was more formal, and I had my doubts afterward. However, 10 days later, I got a call offering me the Launch Internship position. It was the start of an incredible journey with EY.
What were the most memorable parts of your first week as an EY Launch Intern?
The first week of the EY Launch Internship was packed with orientation sessions and networking opportunities. We kicked things off with a virtual orientation that covered the essentials of the firm—everything from service lines to success tips. One of the highlights was attending the New York City welcome social, where I connected with fellow interns.
Shortly after, I traveled to Baltimore for the National Launch Training (NLT), a transformative experience. NLT helped me define who I wanted to become as a professional, while teaching valuable lessons in leadership and technology.
II. How St. John’s University Prepared Tomas for EY
How did your leadership experiences at St. John’s University prepare you for your EY internship?
My time at St. John’s University played a significant role in preparing me for this internship. Being involved in leadership roles with the ACM club allowed me to develop essential communication, collaboration, and project management skills—skills that proved invaluable during my time at EY. The University’s career resources, like résumé workshops and networking events, helped me build confidence and prepare for the professional world. Without those experiences, I wouldn’t have felt as prepared to navigate the fast-paced environment at EY.
How has the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program at St. John’s shaped your technical skills?
My experience in the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program at St. John’s has been foundational in building the technical skills and knowledge needed for leadership roles. I’ve gained proficiency in programming languages such as Java, JavaScript, and Python, alongside HTML and CSS for web development. I’ve also learned essential tools like Git and GitHub, which are critical for effective collaboration. The program’s rigorous focus on core computer science concepts, such as data structures and algorithms, has prepared me to tackle real-world challenges confidently.
This technical preparation has contributed to my growth as a St. John’s ACM Student Chapter leader and beyond. With The Lesley H. and William L. Collins College of Professional Studies and their faculty’s unwavering support, I’ve been able to leverage these skills as chapter president, organizing events, leading initiatives, and fostering peer engagement. The program’s collaborative projects and group activities have been invaluable for developing my communication and presentation abilities, equipping me to take on leadership responsibilities within the ACM chapter and in professional settings like my internship with EY and Headstarter.
How do you see the Fast-Track master’s in Data Science program contributing to your long-term career goals?
I initially enrolled in the Fast-Track B.S./M.S. in Computer Science program and decided to switch to the Fast-Track master’s in data science because I wanted to take on a new challenge and expand my skill set into a different realm of technology. This program allows me to dive into an area of tech I haven’t fully explored. I believe it will equip me with the skills and versatility to work in various fields within the tech industry.
What excites me most about the program is the chance to learn more about Machine Learning, AI, and the diverse applications of Data Science. These areas are rapidly shaping the future of technology, and I’m eager to gain the expertise needed to contribute to those advancements. Currently, I’m focusing on database management systems (DBMS) and learning tools like SQL, MySQL, NoSQL, and SQLite. I’m excited to continue building on this knowledge and applying it to my projects in and out of the classroom.
Overall, I see the master’s in Data Science program as a pivotal step in my long-term career goals, giving me the flexibility and expertise to work across different areas of areas, from software development to data-driven innovation.
III. Top Lessons and Career Impact from his Tech Internship
What was it like rotating through AI and Data and Cybersecurity?
The EY Launch Internship’s rotational structure exposed me to two key areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data and Cybersecurity. In the AI and Data rotation, I worked on a project for a pharmaceutical company that opened my eyes to the power of data analytics. While I couldn’t work directly with the client’s code, I contributed to an important Organizational Change Management strategy.
My second rotation in Cybersecurity was equally valuable. I collaborated on projects using Microsoft Azure’s cybersecurity solutions and worked on decks for a critical alliance project. These rotations helped me see how technology consulting works from technical and business perspectives.
What are the top three lessons you learned from your EY internship?
Three lessons stand out from my time at EY. First, networking is essential—your network is truly your net worth. Conversations with professionals gave me invaluable insights into the tech and consulting industries.
Second, be adaptable and ready to learn multiple skills. At EY, you must meet client needs across various industries, so being a “jack-of-all-trades” is critical.
Lastly, I learned not to settle for mediocrity. The advice from Ken Bouyer, EY’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leader, hit home: average is the enemy, and you must constantly exceed expectations to succeed.
How has your time at EY influenced your career plans?
The internship has solidified my passion for technology consulting and given me a clearer career path. I’m excited to share that I received a return offer from EY for Summer 2025! This experience taught me that my future lies in combining tech and business consulting, and I can’t wait to rejoin EY and continue my professional journey.
IV. Tomas’ Advice for Future Interns
Any advice for students preparing for their first internship or looking to apply?
My advice is simple: network, network, network. Be intentional about connecting with professionals, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Your network will open doors for you. Also, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s taking on a project you’re unfamiliar with or asking a recruiter for an opportunity, growth happens when you challenge yourself. Lastly, be adaptable and open to learning—you never know where your new skills will take you.
For more on Tomas’s extensive experience at EY, check out his feature on Medium: A Summer to rEYmember.
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