Forensic Intern Review

I loved working with the people, but the work itself was not always that interesting.

All the staff were so friendly, I got on well with them all. It was a shame that in my department the staff were alot older than me, with families and children, so did not have time to go out in the evening for drinks etc. We went out for lunches though, and I went to the cinema after work with one of them, and the gym regularly with another. The office had a really friendly atmosphere.

Everyone is given a mentor/ buddy, who is typically a few years older and studying for their accountancy exams. Mine was lovely, and always made sure that I was ok, knew what I was doing, and was very willing to explain things to me that I didn't understand and to answer my questions.

Unfortunately, my department (Forensic) did not have much work for me to do. It was not their fault, and they tried all they could to find little things like printing or filing for me to do, and to invite me to meetings and coffee meetings so I could experience the full range of work. It was just the way that it is that there is not too much that an intern can do in my department, as a lot is quite high level and skilled work. I did have a couple of weeks where I was involved in a very exciting project and felt that what I was doing was valuable. However, a large proportion of time I was bored and did not have that much to do.

It was a good balance. I was given work to get on with by myself, and sent to client sites on my own to gather some data on a couple of occasions. I felt pleased that they trusted me to conduct myself properly and to complete the work accurately, as they were on a very tight deadline!

It has been an extremely good experience, if just to reassure myself that it is work that I could enjoy. My confidence and assertiveness has improved, as have my excel skills!!

Fantastic atmosphere, everyone got on and was friendly. People regularly brought in chcocolate/ sweets/ home-made cupcakes!

I thought it could have been organised better. My office did not really seem to have been told much about the internship scheme, and it was up to you to organise partner shadowing and doing a few days in other departments. It took about 4 months from passing the previous stages to getting my final interview for the internship, and I am still waiting for my final interview for a graduate job (currently a month late!)

They made sure we had opportunities to improve our skills, and paid for our induction etc. We were also well paid for the 8 weeks of work!

I have applied for the graduate position, but currently waiting on the date for my interview.

There were only 6 interns in the Leeds office. We arranged a few drinks and meals but it was all off our own back. I went for lunch and did a few things with colleagues, but as they were older with families/ children department drinks weren't common.

Leeds was a fairly cheap area.

Unfortunately didn't get a chance to go out! But I hear Leeds is excellent.

I think London is better to get involved with sport teams etc, I heard nothing, but organised to go to the gym and cinema with colleagues myself.