Commercial Intern Review

A struggle at first, but really enjoyed the placement once I became more familiar with work.

I was always asked for input in team meetings, and feel like my tasks have contributed to BP operations.

I didn't request help on that many occasions, but knew it was always there if I needed it.

First few weeks were often a struggle to find things to do, once I was more familiar with my work this was never an issue.

I felt that my project really made a difference to BP working practice

Gained valuable skills using spreadsheets and a knowledge of the oil and gas industry. Not necessarily useful for my degree, but certainly for a future career.

Usually a friendly and sociable atmosphere. Only on occasions when lots of people were away from the office was the atmosphere quieter. My desk was positioned near other interns and more experienced colleagues, so there was a good mix of people to talk to.

Due to the nature of my project, initial schedules had to be revised, but a clear structure and expectations were always in place.

We had presentation workshops, knowledge-sharing sessions and CV-related development sessions.

All interns get the opportunity to be referred to an assessment centre by their line manager based on their performance in the placement.

Almost all of us lived in university halls together, so got to know each other really well. BP also organised intern social events.

Aberdeen is pretty expensive due to the oil + gas industry's presence in the town. We also had to pay for our own accommodation, which worked out at over £1000 for 11 weeks. BP reimbursed all our travel expenses however. Far from unaffordable, and definitely cheaper than London. Interns based in BP's Sunbury office receive London Living Allowance in their salary.

Aberdeen is great for bars and restaurants. Plenty of nightclubs too - some better than others. Almost everything is based on or near to the town's main street.

Something social was arranged almost every weekend, as well as team days out, meals, community initiatives (we ran a charity shop event one weekend). BP offer time-matching for charity fundraising activities.