System Hardware Channel Ecosystem Communications Review

I really enjoyed this placement. I learnt a lot and it has certainly given me a good grounding for any future career in business. The year was well structured, there was good support and I felt I was able to contribute effectively to my team's goals.

My team was very inclusive and I felt valued from the start. I was given a thorough induction and supported in learning new skills. I attended meetings with clients and was fully involved all day to day business.

All members of the team were great at explaining the team's goals and how my role fitted in to that. People were always available if I needed assistance but by the same token, I was also comfortable working independently.

Due to IBM's focus on each quarter, the work load fluctuated. There was always enough to do and towards the end of the quarter it could become quite busy. During times when it is not so busy, various online education programmes are available. The Give Back scheme also offers opportunities to become involved.

As the time went on, I was given increasing responsibility. You are trusted to work independently and deliver. As an example, I was co-running the New Routes database which contributes to IBM's quarterly figures. I was also expected to communicate and liaise with people at all levels of seniority within IBM, both in the UK and overseas.

My degree is Marketing and although this placement wasn't in the Marketing Department, it was linked to sales so in that sense it was relevant. I now have a better understanding of how different departments link with each other which will be useful for any business environment. I have become much more confident with the use of Excel and all round business practices. All of this will contribute to my skills base and is therefore very useful for the future.

At Southbank, it can often be quite crowded so desk space is at a premium. There are lots of interns and graduates so from this point of view, it is relatively easy to meet up with others. The atmosphere in my team was really positive and in case, I did work very closely with the team. I don't think this was the case for everyone.

My line manager and the team manager invested a lot of time early on which was really appreciated. I also felt comfortable to ask if anything wasn't clear. I attended several events which gave me a better insight into the overall business environment which was great. It was also useful to have the regular reviews where you have an update on your progress and points for development. Overall, I would say the placement was very well- organised. I had a graduate mentor at the start which was also a big plus.

There were good opportunities to attend workshops and training sessions. There was also access to online training. I was able to get in touch with IBM employees from Ghana and Ethiopia which helped my understanding of how business operates in Africa (a personal interest of mine).

I am interested in investigating future opportunities within IBM. I have spoken to existing graduates to find out more about the graduate scheme.

There are so many young people that the social scene is whatever you make it. I commuted in to London as did others, but many people obviously rent. Socials are organised informally. Personally, I enjoy football so joined up with grads to form a five a side team within the department. We played against other companies.

London is expensive. At Southbank, your IBM card does get you 10% discount in certain bars and eateries - including the Friday food market. The canteen is a bit pricey but there are loads of interesting alternatives within a few minutes walk.

I commuted into London - so not relevant for me.

There are extensive opportunities. I formed a football team which was easy enough. Being London, there are occasionally after office drinks. I also went back to my uni to run the IBM stall at the careers fair (good fun and all expenses paid). I attended a couple of Saturday events which gave me access to a wide network of business contacts.