Business Internship Review

Overall it was an enjoyable experience, but it came with its struggles. It's a very fast-paced environment that can be hard to adapt to, but once you adapt you will find that it's a very rewarding place to be.

I was very lucky and had a very good team. I was never treated as an "intern", I was an FTE just like everyone else, same responsibilities and the same commitments.

If I ever needed any help, all I had to do was ask and someone would always help me.

This all comes down to how well you manage your time. You have to learn to push back at the right times and to set realistic expectations. I have been maxed out on several occasions, but this was in the early stages of my placement, I learnt from this and now manage my time well.

If you prove yourself with the minor tasks, you will get entrusted with high level tasks. I proved myself in the first few months and then found myself managing key projects across the business. Also, don't be scared of asking to get involved, people always need more help!

I am now a different person after my time at Microsoft. All of my skills have improved, from communication, interpersonal, leadership skills to time management and computer skills. You also get the opportunity to complete key Microsoft qualifications. All of this has had a great impact on my confidence.

It was different every week, but generally a good, friendly atmosphere. People aren't always in the office, they could be in America or Asia or even at home!

Lots of intern activities to get involved in and a very helpful HR team dedicated to interns and graduate recruitment. No problems whatsoever.

Personal development was top of their priorities. I was consistently told that the year was all about me, and that it was an opportunity for me to learn and try my hand at whatever I want. If I wanted to get involved in something, my manager would be more than willing to help me get there.

Very good employment opportunities, but not in my department of study! Would definitely go back if I had the opportunity to do so though.

Social scene was good but because of the amount of interns, it was hard to coordinate events. However, we did coordinate many events along with interns at other companies such as HP, BMW, 3M, etc.

My placement was based in Reading, very affordable place to live.

Reading was okay, but London is only a 40 minute train ride away so you are never too far from a decent night out!

Lots of social clubs if you were interested and have the time to take part.