Marketing Intern Review

I felt really at home with American Express from the first day. I was astonished as to how much time each employee had to offer you, both to discuss work and within social situations. The work I did was challenging, however it wasn't a struggle to complete. Where deadlines were too tight, managers and directors were very understanding. The range of projects I undertook ranged from strategic budget management, to creative projects such as advertising and even filming some videos.

At no point in my placement did I feel like "just an intern". The levels of responsibility I was given were beyond my expectations. I was invited to awards ceremonies which were also attended by Vice-Presidents, who I could talk to freely and obtain personal relationship with them.

As previously stated, everyone has time to give to support me; not only my direct line manager, but managers from other departments as well.

While there were instances where it was "quiet" within the office, there was still plenty to do. Furthermore, there were times when I felt my workload was too much, however after mentioning this to my manager, I received the support to find alternative deadlines and the assistance of prioritising my work. If I ever felt like I was bored, I could easily be given something to do, therefore American Express made effective use of me as an employee.

Comparable to other placements I head about, I believe I was given a great level fo responsibility. While I was supported by my managers, I was allowed to make my own decisions and consequently, took responsibility for the mistakes I made.

I was very unsure of myself at the start of my placement; I did not feel I would be confident in speaking to senior colleagues, to make decisions, or to negotiate with suppliers. However, with the correct amount of support from my managers I learnt that I am capable of each of these things. It is now a second nature to me to carry out negotiations, and am able to do so without even worrying about the need to do it. Across the whole of the year there is the chance to highlight your personal weaknesses, and work with other members of the team to develop these into strengths.

My colleagues managed to make me laugh and bring fun to the day even at the most stressful times. Where I was under-pressure and suffering from it, my colleagues still managed to put a smile on my face. There was always some kind of joke, discussion or game going on, yet at the same time this didn't hinder the performance of anyone. The social life at American Express was also fantastic. From going out to lunch with colleagues to having team away-days.

After being offered the job there is always that worry that something will go wrong before placement actually commences. However, my manager kept in contact with me throughout the intermediate period. Personal development is central at American Express, and that counts for the placement students as well. Each week I would have a meeting with my manager where we would discuss my projects, and the directions which I would like to take. While I was treated as an employee, it was still recognised that I was there to learn as a student. The levels of work which I were offered were challenging, but not impossible, which I believe is the sign of a well set up placement.

I had weekly meetings with my manager to work on my personal development. If I believed I needed support or training in an area, my manager would work with me to ensure it was achieved.

Although I was told at the interview they did not offer jobs to students upon completion of placement, there are graduate schemes which can be applied to. American Express also takes part in programmes abroad, so you don't necessarily have to have a job in London.

There were only two other interns in my office. While I could easily speak to them there was no seperate opportunity for us to bond away from other colleagues.

Being London, the cost of living was expensive, therefore I commuted from home every day. The social life was excellent; the offices are located in the centre of London therefore there is always something to do. There were plenty of work drinks, lunches and socials to attend.

There were plenty of opportunities to get involved in charity and community days. Employees would send out messages requesting people to sign up for events. The employee networks at American Express also help to get involved in activities outside work. They run theatre trips and dinners for members, and membership is free!