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 my time at Fidelity. I might have not enjoyed every single aspect of the internship, but overall it was a very pleasant experience.
I felt that everyone treated me with respect and was excited about the work I was doing.
While I had a week of general training before I started my role, there was no formal training at my desk. I learnt most of the things by setting up meetings with my colleagues, shadowing them and asking questions - everyone was happy to help. I had weekly 1-2-1's with my manager where we would discuss my progress and development, as well as any issues or questions. Overall it felt that if you go and ask for support and guidance, then you will get it, but you have to be proactive in order to receive it. It was fine for me but I can see how it can be a bit daunting for some people.
Some days were really busy, while others were quite relaxed. I took on extra work and also kept myself busy learning about different parts of the business so I was not bored at all!
My extra work had a direct business impact which was nice, and I enjoyed the responsibility.
While it is not going to have a direct impact on my studies, it has been a brilliant opportunity to enhance my skillset, improve self-confidence and identify what I enjoy ( or don't enjoy) doing.
The Company
My team was very busy so there wasn't a lot joking around but everyone was very nice. Some floors and offices are quieter than others.
I was really impressed by how much effort HR had put in in organising the internship, learning sessions and social events. I have had internships in other companies before and Fidelity's internship was the most well organised. However your time at your desk is not organised by HR so it can be a bit different story but as long as you are organised and proactive you can ensure it is all set up well.
I can't even imagine how much! Starting from financial perspective to very senior employess time.
Subsidised Canteen
Company Parties/Events
It is quite competetive and the internship is not easy and graduate offers are not guaranteed. However a really good performance in the internship can lead to a graduate offer so fingers crossed!
The Culture
Fellow interns were really clever and fun. We didn't do a lot together after work (probably everyone was just too tired?) apart from centrally organised social events which were all great.
Central of London has never been cheap...
There were quity many bars which would get absolutely packed on certain nights. No good clubs in the area however it didn't worry me as I went out to other places.
There were opportunities but there was too little time! There were social events organised for interns and grads, and we also had a charity challenge which lasted the whole day. Some interns played cricket and football with colleagues however there did not seem to be a lot of activities for permanent employes.
Details
Internship (1 Month+)
Banking
London
August 2014