Partner Marketing Manager Review

The amount of responsibility I have been given has been overwhelming. Microsoft Interns are not seen as Interns, but as equals, and it is not uncommon for Interns to be mistaken for full time employees in regards to their work and their stature.

My immediate team have been exceptionally accommodating and the wider community has always been welcoming and helpful. As an intern, I have not once been 'talked down to'.

Management has been incredible, with my manager encouraging me to try and gain as much experience in all aspects of the business. In areas where I was weaker she would arrange for me to spend some time there. At times when I didn't know where I wanted to gain experience, she offered me excellent advice. Other mentors have been fantastic and it is common practice that people are more than willing to coach/mentor you.

On the hole, the amount of work is perfect. There are of course days where you have more or less to do, however it is more about how you manage your own work schedule. Being able to choose when to work (within reason!) has been extremely handy. If you have too little or too much work, it is more than ok to push back or ask for more.

At the start of the year, I was given a hefty marketing budget and a blank piece of paper. My manager said go away and come back with ideas on how to spend this. I was then guided and advised on what would work and what wouldn't, however ultimately the final decision was down to me. I have both led teams and been a contributor throughout my time at Microsoft.

I have not returned to university yet, but I am confident that I will be a far better student. In terms of concentration levels and drive, I am twice the worker I use to be and in terms of organisation and efficiency - thrice!

Everyone would always be heard chatting and having a laugh, but when it came down to it, we were here to work and everyone understood that. It was all about giving and getting, and we were measured on results. We were able to work where we wanted - be it on the lawn outside by the lake or in a meeting room in a different building - however it always was a happy, hard working atmosphere.

Extra curricular activities for Interns are plentiful, with an endless list of projects, teams and events to get involved in.

Massively. We were able to take exams (for free!) which normally would have cost £100s of pounds. There was the free library which offered a plethora of literature to get your teeth into. On a personal level, my manager was big on personal development, and the mid/end year reviews really helped me to see where I needed to develop and where I was performing well.

The MACH (Graduate) scheme is very appealing and as an intern, you are Fas tracked through the application process. However, you are encouraged to venture down different routes into employment with HR giving you all the support needed.

We went on trips, had nights out organised, and there isn't one Intern who you wouldn't be able to meet up with for a pint!

Being based in Reading was perfect and I had more than enough money to go around, however, it would have been impossible to be placed in London and live off the wage I was given.

Reading doesn't have the greatest nightlife in the world, however we made do. It's more about the group rather than the venue anyway!

Reading was teaming with extra curricular activities. I joined Reading RFC and became a first team regular.