Education Marketing Review

My internship at Microsoft has been the most incredible experience! This year has given me the opportunity to more do than I ever thought possible. I have learnt so much, made so many mistakes (and learn from them, of course), been able to develop both professional and personally and meet the most intelligent, inspirational people. You will not be disappointed!

When joining Microsoft, you feel welcomed and supported by everyone you meet, whether that be your manager, someone in your team, a fellow intern or anyone else. Moving forward you will then realise quite how much impact you're having and the responsibility you are being given. People recognise your talents, nurture these, challenge you and appreciate and acknowledge the hard work you put in at every stage of your journey.

My manager was very supportive of everything I did throughout the year. Although there were times when I found I was not being given the support or guidance I need, there are always other people that are there for you every step of the way. The University Staff Team in particular are an AMAZING support and you always have the knowledge that they are there to fall back on if you ever need to.

This will vary throughout the year depending on your responsibilities and team activities. For example, my role saw a very busy Feb/Jan, but a quieter summer due to the nature of the role. However, if you are quiet, there are always other commitments to take on, including stretch projects, volunteering and any other opportunities you seek! On the other hand, if you are very busy, your manager will always be willing to listen and reassign any responsibilities that you feel you may not be able to deliver on. You will never be bored!

More than expected!! From the very first day you are given responsibility and trust from potentially very senior people who believe that you are capable. You are at Microsoft because you are talented, so you will hit the ground running. Compared to other placements that I have heard about, Microsoft is above and beyond.

During the year I have learnt so much and made many mistakes that have helped me develop and grow. Practical experience in Marketing and business has assisted in building my business acumen and will no doubt support my degree studies. More than anything, however, I have learnt life skills such as managing people and communicating in a professional manner which will be invaluable from now on.

Great! The office is always a fun and enjoyable place to be. You will enjoy coming into work every day to see and work with the best people. Whether in your team, your office or across the Microsoft offices in the subsidiary, the atmosphere is amazing. Of course, this will depend on where you work and your team, but I've never had a bad experience - it's a great place to work!

Could not fault it. From the initial application to the follow up after university, the experience was faultless. The University Staffing Team are dedicated to making your internship the best experience possible, as well as ensuring it is seamless and well organised. They, along with your manager, do a fantastic job and, if there are any problems or issues at all, they will also be there to listen and support you.

Both within the company, your team and as part of the intern programme, there are numerous opportunities from the moment you join. However, everyone will have a different experience with their personal development and training. Of course, there are arranged opportunities for all interns, however much of your personal development will be driven by you, with the support of your manager. Set goals from early on and find people to support you - there are endless opportunities!

Very! It will depend on what stream you are interested in, but for me I will definitely applying to come back. A majority of MACH (graduate) roles are based in Sales and Services, with fewer available in technical and marketing roles. If you are interested in those roles which are fewer in numbers, don't let that put you off! Once you are in Microsoft, there are so many opportunities to navigate your way around the business into other roles.

Yes - everyone is like minded, yet diverse. Incredible people! It is worth noting that interns will be spread across London, Reading, Studios and even some in Scotland! Because of this, you will find there will be close connections within your office, but also great chances to socialise with people from other offices. Don't think that you can't socialise elsewhere - make the most of your intern network and have fun :)

Rent is between £320-£420 in the Reading area depending on what you're looking for. Socialising and general cost of living is very reasonable. There are also a great range of activities, bars, restaurants etc. in Reading which means you can also choose different price ranges depending on your budget (and probably how close to pay day it is!)

Great! Plenty to do whatever music, activities etc. you are interested in. There are a number of different clubs which are open most nights of the week, which all suit different music tastes and types of nights out. Being a university town as well, you can benefit from Fresher's weeks and other great events (but be careful on work nights!) And if you don't drink, there are still some great things to do including restaurants, sport clubs, table tennis clubs and loads more.

Yes, both within my team and the intern community. Some activities will be arranged on behalf of the company, your department or your team and these will be funded, as well as 3 intern events which will be arranged for you. However, there are numerous opportunities to go out most weekends with interns, or every now and then will your team - however this will most likely be self funded. And if you find there aren't may activities planned, then nominate yourself social sec and get some arranged!