Summer Intern Review

I worked in the Competition Economics Department on a market study. I took part in weekly team meetings and helped with odd tasks, including writing briefings for senior figures in the FCA. I was assigned my own area of responsibility too, researching and writing papers on topics such as Open Banking and Deferred Payment Credit (DPC). In my spare time, I worked on a community project and learnt R programming through LinkedIn Learning.

I learnt R programming through LinkedIn Learning, which the FCA provided access to. While writing research papers I built in-depth knowledge of topics like Open Banking and Deferred Payment Credit. I developed my research and writing skills, learning to work efficiently to meet deadlines.

Yes. I was given certain topics within the market study to specialise in. I wrote papers on these topics, presented them to my team, and drafted wording for external papers. I was also entrusted to write briefings on the market study for heads of departments and the executive committee.

I received a lot of support. My team and line manager were happy to answer questions and advise on my work. The graduate team also put on regular trainings and brought in Kaplan to teach us.

The FCA's culture is very welcoming and helpful. Staff across the organisation are happy to meet with you and discuss their work. They expect their interns not to work beyond their contracted hours, and encourage them to rest well.

I enjoyed my work. I found it fascinating and meaningful. There were days when I had little work; I tried to use those days to learn new skills, using the LinkedIn Learning courses.

Yes

I would advise them to express a clear preference for the department they want to work in. I interned last year: it was less fun, as I worked in a department that I was largely disinterested in.