This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.
Rating
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The Role
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The Company
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The Culture
- 1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?
- 2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?
- 3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?
- 4. How busy were you on a daily basis?
- 5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?
- 6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?
- 7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?
- 8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?
- 9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?
- 10. What were the perks on your work placement?
- 11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?
- 12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?
- 13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?
- 14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?
- 15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?
The Role
This year I was in the global corporates sector of the bank, so basically revolved around the bank accounts of big businesses. I really enjoyed my internship this year, everyone was lovely, the work was interesting and I certainly learnt a lot. Firstly, the important thing for me was having lots to do and doing interesting work. Regarding this, the team I was involved in always made sure I had things to do, encouraged cooperation with different team members and taught me how to use various applications whilst providing feedback. It meant I was able to get a lot of things done whilst doing it to the best of my ability and learning about what I could do better. The only thing I didn't enjoy was that some of the work was very technical so I couldn't get stuck in as much as Id of liked, however I do a politics degree so Im not necessarily technical and mathematically minded but I was able to pick things up quite quickly.
I loved my colleagues, no matter what level or job people were everyone had time for me, from asking questions to having various meetings. Its clear that the structure is there but this was easy to break down as people were generally happy to talk to you and help you where possible. I was shocked as although it is one of the 'serious' areas of the bank, people were so genuine and down to earth. I was able to meet with senior people, who you felt like you could talk to about anything. Their perspectives on the bank were obviously a lot different as they had more experience, however they were very relatable and provided great advice. The grads were also great use, great to talk to and great fun. It was lovely to see that although the environment is professional and people work hard, there was also time to socialise and really get to know people on a personal level and talk about general things such as the weekend, sport or politics.
My line manager and team were amazing and supportive not only in the work aspect, but within different things I wanted to do within Lloyds. They answered all my questions and were really helpful. Every task was fully explained which meant I was able to complete them with ease. I had regular meetings with my line manager who provided constructive feedback, help, guidance and support for me which was very useful. Couldn't have asked for a better line manager.
I was busy enough so that I had things to do, but was also able to complete things without rushing and able to fully understand the task. I was essentially as busy as I wanted to be, which allowed me to really learn from the tasks I had, control my own schedule and really get the most out of my internship.
My line manager encouraged independent learning and almost 'failing' from the tasks I completed. He preferred me to do the task in my own time and in my own stead to ensure I learnt the most I could from everything I did. I was given the independence to contact and arrange meetings as I wish and control my schedule which enabled me to prioritise tasks and make the most out of everything.
I don't do anything regarding banking at university so in regards to the technicalities, probably not. But Ive certainly learnt a lot of transferable skills including prioritising, time managing, networking, independent learning and even things such as setting time limits and goals. I think this internship will provide me with good stead for my last year of university. I think ive certainly developed as a person whilst also discovering what Im good at and provided me with a clearer future path.
The Company
The atmosphere was great, a perfect combination between a sociable, genuine environment but also hard working and professional. There was plenty of stead for interacting and getting to know colleagues, whilst also having the ability to work together and talk things through. Everyone was very approachable and friendly which means I was able to introduce myself to various people and get to know lots of people in the office.
Very organised, accommodation and transport was paid for which means I didn't have to worry about where I needed to stay and get there. When I arrived everything was ready for me including log ins and laptops. I had clear starting and finishing dates which meant I didn't have any trouble regarding the internship.
They set up meetings with different areas within the first weeks so I was able to meet everyone in my team and other teams which provided me with a clear overview of the sector. As well as this the team invested a lot of their time into explaining things and answering questions which was great as I was constantly learning and developing within the role.
Flexi Time
Subsidised Canteen
National Travel
International Travel
Company Parties/Events
Working for Lloyds Is very appealing however I can only say this for this sector as my experience last year was very different. The organisation is very sociable with the option to get involved in social activities, sports, fundraising and volunteering. The work is varied and interesting. The perks of this particular internship is that you have the potential to be referred to the grad scheme afterwards which takes away the stress of applying for grad jobs in your final year of university.
The Culture
In regards to fellow interns, we all lived together meaning we could all meet up after work, go out etc which meant making friends was very easy. Regarding colleagues, there was a number of socials including sports, drinking and food so you were able to get involved in a lot of things.
I was in London so the expense of activities is expected. However the strain was taken off by the fact Lloyds paid for accommodation in a great central area. The cost of living wasn't too bad, the staff canteen was good quality and well priced so lunch and that sort of thing wasn't too badly priced. In regards to socialising, London is as cheap as you make it. There are a lot of free activities and well priced restaurants so you can enjoy yourself on a budget if you want to.
The nightlife is good, there were a lot of bars and clubs. The pubs and bars had a great atmosphere and offers after work which meant you could go out after work and have fun with fellow interns on a budget. However on the general side London is more expensive for clubs and nights out.
Yes there was, including sport, volunteering, fund raising and whatever else you fancied doing really.
Details
Internship (1 Month+)
Commercial Banking
London
August 2017