Intern Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my time on this scheme. I gained some very invaluable experiences and a useful insight into work at the Civil Service. The esteemed speakers added to the value of this scheme, and I particularly enjoyed the inspiring talk at the closing ceremony from Azi Ahmed. I was given the opportunity to network with likeminded students in a wide array of universities across the UK, which added to the fun of the scheme.

I enjoyed my time shadowing a fast streamer, and I felt satisfied that my opinions were being valued. I enjoyed being able to make significant contributions to the Civil Service on this scheme. I got asked for my input and for my ideas on different projects, and this added to my satisfaction on the scheme.

During this scheme, I was able to go around other departments, not just the department I was allocated to. This provided me with the opportunity to speak to so many different people in different jobs across the civil service, who provided me with support and advice. Within my department, there was always someone who could answer any questions I had, and the fast streamer I shadowed gave a lot of guidance.

The talks we received, as well as the work I did, added a lot to my skills set. I learnt to use my difference to make a difference in one of the many inspiring addresses. In getting a feel of the working environment from my internship, I learnt how to work in a fast paced environment, and to meet deadlines. I also learnt how important team work is, and I enjoyed having to network and practice team work at the same time, for example in practicing for the Fast Stream assessments.

The insight was extremely well structured. I liked how well the programme ran, and how it did not deviate from the timetable we were given. Everything was laid out clearly for us, and this made the programme even more enjoyable. I also felt that we were given a perfect balance of all the activities - the talks were both engaging and insightful, and we were given enough time to get stuck into our departments.

The general atmosphere on this internship was great. Everybody was very friendly and willing to converse which made networking on this scheme enjoyable.

By providing us with the opportunity to do proper work, the Civil Service definitely invested a lot in our personal development and training. I particularly learnt to be innovative, working on communications. The talks from the fast streamers about the skills set required on the job aided personal development. The mindfulness exercises were also instrumental in aiding personal development.

A lot of contact hours with actual employees were provided, which provided us with a full understanding of what it's like to work for the Civil Service. Additionally, we got to experience the early responsibility that comes with working there. The entire system was explained to us, and we were provided with many opportunities to go around different departments and speak to employees from across the streams. We were encouraged to make the most of our experience and gain full insight into the way the Civil Service operates.

The talks from Permanent Under Secretaries and from Fast Streamers provided a great deal of insight into the company culture. Watching the way employees respond to and relate with each other in the work place was also insightful - it was a very friendly environment. The Civil Service Values were explained in detail, which also helped with understanding the company culture.

This insight was particularly useful, as it addressed common questions and misconceptions that people may have when choosing between public and private sector work. It was nice to hear straight from the employees about why they chose to work for the Civil Service, and in some cases, why they moved from the private sector. Additionally, the help and advice provided about making further applications to the fast stream were very valuable.

A lot of opportunities to network were provided, especially at the opening and the closing ceremony. We were given regular breaks during which we could speak to each other. Also, we were provided with slots in our timetables for networking and coffee breaks. The layout of the events enabled networking, because we were put on tables. The group activities such as a visit to the house of parliament also made networking easier.

I would definitely recommend this insight to a friend. Firstly, it is a prestigious insight to have on your CV due to the rigorous selection process. Also, it provided a massive amount of support and insight into further applications to the Civil Service. The networking opportunities were valuable, as people managed to create links and friendships with one another. The work we did and we shadowed was inspiring, thought provoking and exciting. The people we got to speak to, and the calibre of speakers also made this a brilliant experience.