Intern Review

Although the experience overall was very informative, engaging and gave a good impression of the company's personality, I enjoyed the second day far better than the first. On the first day we spent the whole day listening to talks by company employee's. Whilst we did get to hear from a diverse selection of employees and learn a lot about each sector, I personally felt my attention waning by the end of the day; none of the talks were boring, however it was difficult to remain engaged after we had been in the same room listening all day. On the second day we did an exercise in teams in which we had to create a business plan for a travel agents company and then present it to the 'clients' (KPMG employees) who asked us questions about our plan. This day allowed me to engage with the other members of the insight programme and also gain an insight into what day to day life at KPMG is like. Presenting and asking questions was challenging but also enjoyable. The second day ended with a talk about interview advice, which I found helpful.

We were treated as equals, all of the employees I met were friendly and seemed happy to talk to us.

We were given a lot of information about all of the different sectors. Going into the insight programme, I had decided that Management Consultancy was what I'd prefer to do, but after hearing from employees I also began to take into consideration other sectors, such as Audit. We were also given interview guidance, and were welcome to ask any questions at the end of each talk.

Before the insight programme, I was very unsure about the idea of professional services. It was a career path I had considered but at the same time was unsure whether it was right for me. However, the second day of the programme was very enjoyable for me and I began to see myself working for a company like KPMG. I was a part of a team in which we all had different skills, which helped me to develop my teamwork as I had to be dependent on others. I do not think the programme necessarily gives you skills for your academic studies, but it allows you to begin to think about your professional future, and shows you what skills you will need for that.

The insight programme itself was very structured, the only negative is afterwards when we had interviews. KPMG placed everyone who took part on the insight programme on the 'fast track' to interviews for next years summer vacation programme. On the second day, we put our top five preferences on an iPad, and I put 'Management Consulting' as my number one choice. It took a few months to hear back about when the interviews would be, and when I did receive an email, it was for an interview the next day. I personally had to decline this interview offer as professional service's interviews have a reputation for being difficult and I felt I needed more than a day to prepare. Luckily, it was easy to reschedule an interview, yet when I received a rescheduled interview, it was again for a few days later. As I knew the interviews had already started, I had began preparing for my interview, but would like to have been told sooner when the interviews would be. Additionally. I was not told what sector I would be interviewed for until I asked. I was going to be interviewed for Audit, which I didn't mind, but it was my fourth choice and think I should have been told, as I think many people probably assume that they had been assigned their first choice unless told otherwise. I had also put my top two locations for the internship as Liverpool, my home city, and London, where I study. I was lucky enough to succeed in the interview an get a place on the summer internship next year, however I was assigned in the Manchester office. When I asked if a mistake had been made, I received an apology, but was told that the Liverpool office was full so it was Manchester or nothing. I do not mind working in Manchester as I believe KPMG will pay for your travel expenses but it was slightly irritating to have passed the interview only to be told that your office is full.

The atmosphere was always positive, and it gave me a good idea of what the social life is like in KPMG. Everyone seemed happy to be working there, and welcoming to us.

The insight programme was only two days long, so personal training and development was non applicable.

We were given the opportunity to speak and hear from a diverse range of employees, and each one had a lot to say about their role.

I came away from the insight programme with an understanding of the importance KPMG gives to their employee's personal happiness and the 'work play' balance.

I came away from the insight programme more sure that I would fit in a professional services firm.

I was already living in London so was not required to fill out an expenses form.

There was a networking session on the first day were we could talk to graduates.

They were good, although perhaps more KPMG employees could have been there, as it was difficult to get your question in sometimes.

I know that KPMG has a drinks session once a month for employees.

Yes.