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 really enjoyed this placement and would recommend anyone to do the same - I think the only reason I did not rate all stars is because not everybody had such a well-structured and enjoyable placement.
My team was extremely welcoming and helpful, and everyone is willing to take out half an hour to have a chat, which is great as you get to hear about everyone else's experience to where they are today.
I had a fantastic manager who himself had a fantastic manager, so my guidance on this placement was great. Even though most of my team were based in Manchester, good communication links meant that I always knew I could pick up the phone if needed.
I was quite busy throughout my placement, which is what I like - sometimes I had to stay a bit longer, but I didn't mind because it got the job done. I know others don't always feel the same, which is why they may not get the job done quite to the same standard.
I was given alot of responsibility over what I was working on - as it was a proposal which I did not need to work with anyone else for, it meant I could take as much responsibility as I liked, but also always knowing there was someone on the end of the phone for support.
I think my experiences will definitely be helpful in the future, although not necessarily with my studies - much more for my working career once I graduate.
The Company
I had a nice atmosphere in the office, and there were some laughs and giggles, but not many from my actual team were based here so there was not that much socialising.
I think this placement was very well-structured, with lots of socialising and meeting with other interns. However, there was not much communication before the placement began, which I think could have been improved.
As it was a short-term placement I did not undergo any training - however there was alot of focus on setting up structured and achievable objectives for my to achieve during my placement, which give a real focus throughout the 8 weeks.
Flexi Time
Subsidised Canteen
Subsidised/Company Gym
National Travel
Company Parties/Events
Staff Sales/Staff Shop
I would definitely consider coming back, and am at the moment deciding whether I would like to return as a grad - however they are very keen to get you to sign contracts early, which is a bit off-putting, as I would still like to consider other options.
The Culture
There was alot of socialising by the interns. Aside from meeting daily for lunch, there were also nights out, and the intern organisation team set up many dinners and drinks events.
It is London - if you're not used to it, it will be alot!!! However I stayed at home so still managed alright.
Lots of bars and restaurants for after-work socialising, and good links to more affordable clubs in the city.
At this particular location I think the focus is more on working in a very professional environment, then getting home to pursue other things. There was a fantastic cheap work gym with classes, and I know other Barclays sites feature other opportunities.
Details
Internship (1 Month+)
London
August 2010