Summer Associate Intern Review

I enjoyed this internship significantly. I was able to see a wide variety of projects, from industry research to building a LBO model from scratch. The wide range of projects enabled me to get a clearer picture of what I would get to see as a full-time employee. Further more, I gained exposure to a range of complex tasks, from what would be expected of an Analyst intern, all the way to managing a full time Analyst.

I felt relatively valued by my colleagues. As an Associate intern in the London office, not many full-time folks see the value in an MBA, therefore were less likely to want to work with me. On the other hand, there were a couple of projects where I was able to contribute significantly by bringing my unique perspective and style to the team, ultimately resulting in key find for the client. There definitely was a range, however overall, I felt valued.

I did not receive a significant amount of support and guidance. On one project, there was an Associate (MBA) who walked me through an analysis in more detail, however she was the exception rather than the rule. I do feel when I desperately needed assistance, people were willing to help, however the onus was 100% on me to reach out for that guidance.

Extremely. Of course the first couple of weeks were less so as we were getting up to speed and teams were deciding on what projects to assign to me. Towards the middle and definitely here at the end, my days absolutely fly by between progressing through models and networking coffee chats. It's incredible how quickly the days go by which is a direct testament to how busy and involved I am in my tasks. At times it was overwhelming, however I believe this was a better view of what full-time will be like.

I was given a range of responsibility from running my own work and project deadlines to effectively shadowing an Associate. I felt it was the perfect blend to highlight what level will be expected of a full-time Associate while ensuring I was still on task throughout the summer. I was able to take true ownership of my deliverables which was crucial for me over the program.

I am amazed at the amount of skills I have developed over the summer. Most specifically the modelling and technical projects that I have worked on. As an MBA Associate intern, my greatest area for improvement was my quantitative skills. As such, the exposure and repetition obtained over the summer was quite impressive. Furthermore, learning how to view a task as a banker improved significantly over the summer which will continue to benefit me long after the internship

General atmosphere was very collegial and supportive. I appreciated the diversity on the floor and the support and acceptance of individuality across teams. There was a variety of cultures and personalities between different groups, some more positive or negative than others, however my personal experience was very positive. There was quite a variety of personalities and I felt that everyone was valued for their own opinion and perspective.

The program organisation as whole was great in theory, but has a few areas for improvement. In particular, the programming and exposure to senior management was top notch. There were a number of opportunities for networking and socialisation which are vital during the internship, both to make an informed decision of those that you will work under and with, and also for ensuring exposure and recognition of yourself throughout the summer. In terms of some logistical and administrative topics, there seemed to be a disconnect between the key organisers. A little more clarity and communication to the interns would go a long way.

We were provided with a full week of class training prior to beginning the summer internship. In addition, we were required to complete various administrative and compliance trainings the second week of the program and first week on the desk. I do believe there could have been more in depth technical training for the summer Associates, however recognize and appreciate the whole program is a short 10 weeks which affords limited extra time in order to ensure proper exposure to the teams and the work during the program.

Extremely appealing. In terms of the banking industry, I believe BAML is the top of its class. The benefits the firm offers and the culture over all sets the firm out from its peers. I truly enjoyed getting to know the teams here and know I will stay in touch regardless of my employment prospects within the organisation.

Absolutely - the camaraderie amongst the interns, both analysts and associates, was very strong. Most everyone was extremely friendly and willing to help out along the way. We often would grab a drink together after work on Fridays and would meet up over the weekends. As I mentioned before, I believe I will remain in contact with the large majority of my colleagues both socially and professionally.

This is difficult for me to answer as I lived with a significant other during the summer and as a summer associate, my social activities are a bit different than a university student who is around 20-22 years old.

Not much of a nightlife around the office as we are located in the City of London. Majority of restaurants and bars close on the early side resulting in not much after hours. Also as an older Associate, my nights our are slightly different than a uni intern.

There were not many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work, primarily because this is a banking internship and by no means is a reflection on BAML. If anything, Bank of America Merrill Lynch encourages out side activities as much as feasibly possible. The company did organise a volunteer community service event which was a great opportunity to get out of the office, socialise with fellow interns and to give back to the community.