Power Trading Summer Intern Review

My internship at EDF Trading was a most invigorating experience. The role that I was given provided significant challenges and I felt that my contributions were valued. I was mentored by senior colleagues in a variety of areas, which provided insight into their individual roles and the industry. I gained valuable experience and confidence from my position within the team. I was welcomed into the team and enjoyed networking and socialising with colleagues. I would definitely recommend an internship at EDF Trading for the high value experience that can be enjoyed.

I felt that there was a full commitment shown by my colleagues to my development at all times; I was entrusted with an operational role after less than two weeks of learning about the marketplace, the traders, analysts and trading assistants all afforded me time to explain various processes and teach me about the business. Everyone I worked with throughout all the business sections within the organisation treated me professionally and with kindness.

My supervisor provided guidance on my projects through the initial project scoping, and via feedback and further guidance once stages were completed, or when I sought clarification. I was encouraged to ask any questions and to seek guidance whenever necessary. My supervisor organised training by the trading assistant at the beginning of my internship, and mentoring throughout. I also received support from other colleagues.

After an initial period of learning, I was engaged with my daily operational task, along with work on my projects. In addition other tasks were assigned as required. The work load allowed me time to meet with colleagues for discussion and mentoring – this was achieved by ensuring that I worked similar hours to the rest of the Power Trading floor.

I delivered an operational role during most of my internship; all the projects I undertook were specifically for future use in important analysis and decision-making, and it was evident that my work was valued. I was impressed by the level of responsibility that I received on my internship.

My placement provided me with an invaluable insight into the trading profession, which will prove highly beneficial in any future career; I received transferrable skills and knowledge, such as advanced Excel and VBA skills, and was given advice on my studies and future career by my colleagues, which have enabled me to target key subject areas upon returning to university.

The trading floor can be high pressure environment, but this was professionally managed to ensure a good atmosphere to work in, especially amongst the team on the Short Term Power Desk. I always felt comfortable amongst my colleagues, and indeed with everyone I met.

I did not encounter any significant difficulties and this was a reflection of how well organised the internship was. I was given mentoring, guidance and the necessary resources to complete the tasks. There were also organised training sessions and briefings with senior members of staff from different divisions, enabling all the interns to learn about the functioning of the various business areas within the company.

The key investment I received was the mentoring and time spent with me by various professionals. My supervisor was mindful of my personal development and actively ensured that I was learning throughout the process and that the internship was valuable to me. The insight into the career of trading, the specific understanding of power markets, and the skills in spreadsheet development and VBA programming are all assets that I believe will be invaluable to me in a future career.

Highly appealing, as I found the field challenging and stimulating, enjoyed the atmosphere and working environment, and found it easy to integrate into the team and make friends with colleagues. I would certainly consider this in the future and keep an eye on advertised positions.

I enjoyed drinks after work with fellow interns on a couple of occasions; we got to know each other better after the organised social evening.

Costs are high in central London, as expected, more so in this area of London than most other areas. Accommodation costs were particularly high as a result of the Olympics, and travel restrictions during the Games period also caused some difficulties.

On the plus side of the Olympics, many Olympic events could be easily accessed in the area around Hyde Park, The Mall and Westminster. Theatres, bars, nightclubs, more or less everything can be found in and around Victoria.

I enjoyed socialising with colleagues, and there were some corporate events in which we were welcome to participate.