Financial Stability Intern Review

I was given a range of work to do and was in a field I was really interested in - Financial Stability. A few character clashes with some colleagues dampened the experience however, although I guess I needed to encounter that sooner or later in my career!

I felt valued by most of my colleagues, who treated me as an equal in professional terms. However some colleagues attempted to make me do work that is attached to the stigma of doing internships, although this wasn't sizeable enough to outweigh the welcome I got from others.

I was given a lot of support by my line manager, who I had a great working relationship with. My team manager, who I answered to whilst my line manager took leave, was highly critical of me, where I could have used constructive guidance. Whilst only for a short period, I feel this was an isolated incident with a difficult character.

I always had things to do in the first half of my internship, and time flew by. As I settled, work quietened down but I was still busy day to day. I always knew what I was going to work on that day on my commute into the office.

I was given a fair bit of responsibility on the given tasks set, and entrusted to do them independently, which I very much valued. Whilst the work I had to do may not have been high priority, it was always necessary.

I feel I've learnt deal with different characters in the workplace, and have a better understanding of etiquette in a professional environment. I learnt to be more independent, and not to be afraid to ask superiors for help when necessary. I vastly improved my ability to be clear and concise (in writing reports), and improved my communication skills.

The atmosphere was largely okay, if a bit quiet. Not so much joking in the office as the occasional remark.

It was very well organised, with a clear structured timetable of all events. A few things got lost in communication with me, but nothing major.

What was great is the coaching programme I got on to specifically through this internship. It's a clear guidance on how best to approach applications for the civil service fast stream, with practice sessions and consulting sessions. There were also various civil service events and group events we had to do or had the option to attend which aided my personal training and development.

As it's the public sector I would have to apply for the Civil Service Fast Stream Programme - but the experience of the internship and help from the coaching programme bodes well should I apply.

The other interns and I became really close and would often go out after work. By the end of it we were a good network of friends that still keep in touch!

Being in central london, it's bound to be expensive. Travel was my biggest expense, as my family home is in London.

The nightlife is great in London - but this is not from experience through the internship!

There were various opportunities to go to different departments, sports days, and other activities, although often not well advertised.