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
For me enjoyment meant that I woke up every day excited to go into work. I was given the opportunity to try new aspects of the business daily and that not only kept me on my toes but also meant that I was able to have an experience of a lifetime.
My voice was always heard. It felt great to be valued for your opinions and thoughts. This did not mean that everyone agreed with me all the time but I was always given effective feedback on potential ideas and approaches.
My manager was very supportive and was always there when I needed guidance on various different aspects. He was always prepared to listen to my perspective and steered me in the right direction when I needed help. Similarly, I was lucky enough to find amazing mentors that guided me through my 12 months and really helped me grow throughout the process.
Microsoft in its nature is very fast paced. Therefore, I was definitely never bored but sometimes a little too busy, which resulted in a few long days. However, the balance was never unhealthy as there were busy periods and quite periods depending on times of the year.
I was trusted with various different aspects in the business that would have had substantial impact if something went wrong. Whether it was customer presentations or creating necessary reports; I was always allowed to take responsibility and have an impact on the company.
I have developed my technical skills by training and certifying in Excel and Powerbi. Moreover, the amount of transferable skills that I was able to apply and hone throughout the placement year will not only help me though my degree but also my future in business.
The Company
The atmosphere was friendly. I could easily approach anyone from the hierarchy if required. Diversity and Inclusion are very important for the organisation, which made the work atmosphere very productive and open. Everyone was always prepared to help.
Services in Microsoft has a very well thought out early in careers plan. I never felt lost in any way.
I was able to take exams for professional qualifications for free. Also trained professionals was always ready to teach you about anything that you needed insight on.
Subsidised Canteen
Sports and Social Club
Subsidised/Company Gym
National Travel
Company Parties/Events
Staff Sales/Staff Shop
Above 25 days holiday
Working from home
The graduate employment prospects have amazing potential for growth in various different areas.
The Culture
There was a great intern community.
Reading is fairly afforable.
London is a 25 minute train journey away.
There are sports clubs that you can join.
Details
Placement (10 Months+)
Accounting, Data Science, Sales
International
October 2019