Transactions Services Associate Review

There was so much that I could involved in beyond the normal day to day job that I had. Even though I was primarily in a finance role, during my placement I was able to get involved with audits on two ocassions. Something that I found really useful for my final year!

Even though I was the placement student, I didn't feel like I was treated like one. The team that I had really valued the work and effort that I put in. In negative situations, I was told I was wrong and had clear explanations, and in positive situations I was commended accordingly.

There was a good amount of support given to my managers, in instances where something was unclear they would explain it. Although, there was a expectation to do work by myself and be left alone to complete it within the time frames, this was good so I could get on with it and did not have to be micro-managed.

Depends entirely on your project/role. You will generally experience at least two different projects during your placement.

There was a good amount of responsibility that I was given throughout my placement. Essentially after two weeks, I was in charge of managing two processes end-to-end. This meant that people were actively relying on me to provide guidance and information, as well as being the go to person if they had any queries!

I have picked up incredibly useful Microsoft Excel skills, the ability to network effectively and how to work in a corporate environment, interacting with clients and with senior leadership.

When you are in the office you are there to work, of course this depends on your team but make the effort to socialise and attend/organise events outside of the office and things soon liven up.

The process of allocation of roles on projects within the company is not ideal, you may not be aligned to an area in which you have an interest.

There was an indispensable MS Excel course at the beginning which proved very useful. Other than that there is plenty of great free online resources and training at your disposal but you must find time to sign up to and complete these yourself. You can do these during work hours, if you ask then your supervisors will be able to accommodate this.

This is purely a case of personal preference. Don't let this put you off!

All the interns connected on Facebook, went on nights out etc. DO NOT get together and sign a contract on accommodation in London as this will be expensive and you may be working out of town for half the week.

It wasn't too bad as it was outer London, a lot of places were fairly reasonably priced. The cost of living was also fairly reasonable.

You could make what you wanted of it, London had a lot of places ranging from the small bars and pubs to the bigger and more expensive clubs.

You must be very pro active to get involved with these. There are plenty of societies/clubs etc to get involved with but bear in mind you may want to use your weekends to do stuff and chill out!