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
Very rewarding experience in which I was able to take ownership of my work and contribute towards specific projects. Got to know lots of interesting people and was able to establish new relationships.
The team was very nice and most juniors were approachable for questions. They appreciated my help and were patient enough when making mistakes.
On the first day we received industry-specific primers and helpful information material to get settled. Once staffed on a project it depended on the team members whether they gave concise or vary instructions.
Most of the days I came to the office between 9 and 10 and left between 11pm and 3am. Of course, the hours are tough but not extreme for investment banking standards.
Again, depended on the team members/supervisor. I was staffed on a project on which I basically worked since day 1 and therefore I was given more and more responsibilities over time. I was able to manage sub-projects by myself and my supervisor made sure I got exposure to a variety of different tasks.
The training week at the beginning of the internship is helpful to establish basic knowledge but once on the job you will experience a steep learning curve, especially in the first few weeks.
The Company
Our floor had a variety of different industry teams. Everyone was open for a quick chat if they were not too busy which contributed towards a friendly atmosphere. I got along very well with my team and fellow interns. However, in times of stress, the open space structure left no room for "escaping the angered".
The pre-organization of the internship went well with HR always responding quickly to queries. During the internship the HR team organized some events to socialize which I enjoyed a lot.
As mentioned, we used to have a training week at the beginning of the internship. Apart from that, I self-educated myself with industry primers and the juniors also offered helpful materials and advice. There was no former training on-the-job.
Subsidised Canteen
Company Parties/Events
If I get the chance, I would like to come back next year for a full-time position.
The Culture
Yes, we individually organized events on the weekend or met for after-work drinks here and then. I got along very well with everyone.
It's Canary Wharf, so obviously everything is quiet expensive. However, living in the nearby areas is affordable by London standards.
There was not much in Canary Wharf and pubs/bars closed early. However, within a few minutes you were able to reach City of London to go out.
Given the time commitment, it was hard to have a proper social life outside of work. On the weekends I went out with friends and did some sports but time was still limited.
Details
Internship (1 Month+)
Banking
London
July 2018