Work Placement - Actuarial Department Review

Overall, the internship gave a really good insight into the responsibilities of the Bank. I was allowed to have hands on experience as an employee from day one as I attended meetings, seminars and produce work that the team used directly.

Although my team was mainly senior employees at the Bank which didn't offer the chance to connect with recent graduates/joiners, I was made welcome and everyone was offering to answer any questions or queries throughout the internship. It really showed that they valued my presence as well.

Good support throughout on the scheme from both my manager and management. Could have done with more guidance before the internship started but definitely settled in well.

I have always had something to do. Some days are busier than others, but I have never been idle or overworked.

I have been asked to write a report from start to finish on my own - I happy to say that this has given me a lot of challenging work and responsibility.

Although I wasn't put into the division related directly to my degree, it definitely improved my professional working skills and assist in parts of my degree studies.

The office was really friendly and colleagues instantly come over to say hi and welcome soon after I arrived. There is definitely a sense of teamwork and the will to help one another. Amongst the team, there was a much more casual interaction than expected but obviously still with a professional manner. Dress is smart with some teams going for Dress Down on Fridays.

The organisation before the internship started was not clear and efficient. But from the induction onwards, contact via emails was regular when needed and it was easy to raise any queries which were answered promptly. The staff who organised the internship were approachable and honest.

The Bank encourages personal development hugely with weekly events/ seminars /talks across the Bank. As an intern this was really useful and training was offered where needed. The scope of the training available was quite diverse. However, on some courses, numbers are limited which can be quite annoying if you can't sign up in time.

Positive employment prospects in my opinion in terms of working hours, staff facilities, work/life balance and the work environment. Expect pay to be lower than the private sector though and career progression can be a lot slower than you would imagine.

In my cohort, there was constant interaction with fellow interns which was perfect for sharing any experiences/ problems. There was an initial social organised for the new interns but after that it was down to us to organise any socials or get together.

Can't really comment on this as I commuted into the city from home- travel was expensive though and there are no travel loans/subsidisation provided.

London is filled with bars/ pubs/ clubs which offers variety for all. Downside is that it's packed on Fridays and drinks are very pricey.

Good opportunities for sports, societies across different interests. I was only there for a short time so couldn't really get stuck into anything but I know many employees that make good use of the gym and the other opportunities at the Bank.