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
I had a fantastic year at IBM. I had a really hands on role at IBM and got a lot of exposure in the company which helped.
I got on with my Team extremely well, they could rely on me when they needed help and I could rely on them for help and gaining great experience.
My task manager and team gave me great support and guidance. They made sure I was getting the most out of my time here. My only complaint would be that foundation have so many interns and graduates to look after they find it hard to find the time for all their interns. As long as you have a good relationship with your task manager you should have a good year.
I was busy most days, I had a role with a strong structure so knew what I was doing on a daily basis. I was also proactive in finding my own tasks/events I could organize when I had free time. Its all about being proactive and finding your own work at IBM.
I was responsible for the smooth running of the management process in our team so if I got it wrong it could disrupt the team. I also helped organize many high profile events and was trusted with confidential data.
I think the best asset I learnt for my degree is time management which will be invaluable for when I go back in to my final year of uni.
The Company
The environment is good as I got on well with the team and the team were all based in the same location. You also have an army of 60 other interns so you are not the only one in that situation.
The placement was really well organized my only flaw would be the point mentioned earlier about foundation not having enough time for all their interns and graduates.
Alot of investment went into my time here...they concentrate a lot more on their graduates rather than their interns though as it is not a guaranteed return for interns.
Flexi Time
National Travel
Above 25 days holiday
Working from home
IBM would be a good solid company to work for as a graduate. They offer roles in sales and consulting...the only downfall is that they don't offer an instant return to the grad scheme if you are a high performer like most companies do.
The Culture
Really good, we went for lunch together and social drinks after....there was a group where we could all chat and a few of us lived together too.
Cost of living was expensive as I lived in London but IBM give you a weighting to make up for the cost. Socialising is great as you have the city at your door step.
Great! But expensive....not quite student living.
Not really for girls...guys organised football for them selves and a few girls organised our christmas and summer get together etc..
Details
Placement (10 Months+)
London
July 2012