Intern Review

I really enjoyed my work during this internship

I always felt valued for my work, and my achievements were recognised

At all times I felt I had plenty of people to reach to for support. I approached my manager and mentor several times for guidance, and was always given useful advice that enhanced my work without taking over the project.

I never felt like I had nothing to do until the projects all concluded in the last few days. However I did feel that a lack of communication led to me being given a bit too much, that led to a few days of being excessively busy.

I had several projects, most of which had some real world impact. However in one I had the opportunity to create work that was sent out to a significant portion of the company, so I feel that I had the opportunity to actually influence the company.

I assume it will be helpful due to the personal engagement practice, and presentation skills. However I cannot speak further without seeing if I can use many of the other things I learnt effectively as I move onwards with my education and career.

Really friendly and supportive. I always felt I could reach out for help, and even for a friendly chat to get advice. There was often food and people were happy to talk to you, and make you feel included.

Whilst much of the internship was flawless, I did feel that too much non-work events were set up, as over 1/4 of my time was away from the projects I had to deliver on. Furthermore, a compulsory holiday was added near the end, which I hadn't accounted for, and as such I was forced to miss days that would have been really useful in finishing my work. This led to longer days around the event, and an overall increase in stress.

There were several training events that provided focussed training we all went through, and my line manager went out of their way to ensure I could find extra ways to develop in the areas I wanted to.

After my time here I would happily return to work at HSBC. Although I spent most of my time in a department that perhaps wasn't suited to my skills, I got a chance to look at the many options that I would love doing for full time work.

The other interns often went out together, or had socials that were widely attended and fun. In addition I felt I had a great time at work with the interns that were in my department, and enjoyed worked along side them.

Birmingham was relatively expensive, but not unexpectedly so, especially compared to London or other similar locations.

The late night pubs were pleasant and affordable, and some other events were available. I feel that the nightlife would be excellent outside of summer, but was quite whilst we were there due to it being outside of term time.

We had one charity day that we all attended, but due to the short nature of our internship we couldn't do any other out of work days. In addition we couldn't attend much else outside of work as much of it was pre-booked long before we arrived.