Technology Intern Review

It was, without doubt, the best experience within a company I've had to date. I felt completely immersed in the firm right away, which helped make my time there very valuable indeed. I quickly felt like an integral part of my team, felt valued by both my team and the firm, found the work interesting and challenging - I did not want my time there to come to an end.

The project I worked on was designed so that I was able to bring something to completion; this was fantastic as I was able to really add value to my team, and bring my own strengths to the table. After I had presented my project, the feedback I received made clear that my work had been valuable, and would be used after I left.

This is not a firm who hold your hand through every baby step - but for me that was a huge positive. My team were very approachable and really helped me get to grips with the work, the company and the technical language. The network of other interns and colleagues quickly becomes a source of support, too. I was assigned a buddy, however we were in slightly different business areas and this was less helpful than the other support.

I learned new technical skills I didn't previously have; these helped open my eyes to a new career path which I am very excited about. Talks, networking and a very approachable team also meant I developed my understanding of the financial markets and the way in which Goldman Sachs operate.

The insight was well structured to allow me to complete and review a mini-project. My first week included introductory sessions, meetings with my buddy and social events to help me settle in. The middle weeks gave me enough flexibility to experience the workplace, but with access to other structured sessions.

Goldman's culture is unique; it's a firm of bright, hard working and passionate people, who made me feel very welcome. The structure of the firm is very flat, and networking across firm is encouraged, with plenty of speaking series and round table events. The firm really look after their people, and there is a brilliant atmosphere.

I felt that, given the shorter time frame of the insight, the firm made real effort to maximise my development whilst I was there. It was especially valuable to have access to so many partner level individuals, and to be able to speak with them in small groups. I had open access to a wide variety of online learning, with which I could explore many areas of the firm.

The insight provided me with a great understanding of every day working life within Goldman Sachs. Not only did I have the opportunity to create valuable work, I was also part of the wider firm - I could use the gym, go to events, share ideas and connect with people around the firm to build my own network.

The company culture is such a huge part of life at Goldman Sachs, and right from my introductory session I felt very comfortable with that culture. The firm is very open about their culture, and it's quite well defined - this makes it much easier to get to grips with, and to enjoy.

Because I was given so much ownership over my piece of work, I really gauged what it would be like to work there, and what kind of work I would most like to do. Before starting at Goldman Sachs, I had very little knowledge about what roles I would enjoy - not any more.

I was paid for this insight at a weekly rate. Although lower than other interns on a longer placement, I was paid well during this insight. Many breakfasts, lunches and social events were also included, so - along with the invaluable experience - it really was fantastic reimbursement for my time.

Networking events were fantastic. Not only was I given lots of opportunity for structured networking, but the events were also varied enough to introduce me to a wide range of people. From social events with other interns, to meeting other teams, partners, managers, VPs and interns specifically within your business area.

In terms of social events, I joined three events during my insight. This included an event with a firm wide network, an intern summer social and a business area social event. Though a professional atmosphere, the social events were an opportunity to relax with other people from the firm. Personally, I did not attend any events that mixed outside of the firm.

There were plenty of sports teams to get involved in. The firm also has firm wide networks of people with different interests, which are international. I did not see any other particular interest groups, clubs or societies but there may well be some. There is also ample opportunity to set up your own networks.

100 percent, yes. It was the best insight I have ever taken part in. If that person enjoyed challenging work, working around bright, interesting people, building a career within a very specific culture, working in a top, global company, bringing their individual skills to the table and networking within a huge firm of people.