Summer Intern Review

I enjoyed my internship a lot, as I achieved a good overview of the insurance industry as well as increased my experience and skills in project management. Allianz really went above and beyond to support my understanding of the company as well as the insurance industry in general. For example I was given the opportunity to visit offices and contact centres in other locations.

At all times I was given the feeling that I was considered a valuable member of the team. My ideas were always listened to and honestly considered. Furthermore I was invited to social events, such as leaving parties, which gave me the chance to get to know my colleagues in a less formal environment.

There was always someone approachable when I needed support or guidance. I had regular catch-up meetings to discuss my progress as well as how I get on with the work. In this respect, especially the fact that on the programme you're assigned to a line manager and a buddy (someone on the graduate scheme) is very helpful.

This really varied throughout the time. Particularly at the beginning there were more quiet periods, however towards the end I got pretty busy, as I had to finish the deliverables for multiple projects. However I always felt that I could raise my concerns, so that I could either ask for more work or for the scope of a project to be slightly reduced.

I was given full responsibility for two projects. This gave me the chance to work on a project for its entire duration, going through different stages of the project life cycle. I was responsible for scheduling and organising meetings as well as for managing my time effectively to produce the desired output on time.

I think that particularly the experience of managing my own projects was very valuable in the sense that it supported my organising, time management and communication skills. Moreover I have developed a good understanding of the industry, which has made me become more certain about my further career plans.

The atmosphere in my team was very good in the sense that it was a fun but professional work environment. Most importantly everyone was always very approachable, friendly and helpful. Other departments seemed to be more quiet, which however does not mean that people there were unfriendly or not supportive.

The fact that I had a line manager and a buddy who were both always approachable was very positive. There were multiple events organised by HR during the internship scheme, which seemed to be a particular asset for those interns working in regional offices (who therefore did not have contact to other interns on a regular basis). However information (particularly regarding the assessment) could have sometimes been a bit clearer circulated a bit earlier.

I was given

There seems to be a good chance for interns to be fast tracked onto a graduate scheme, which obviously increases people's motivation during the internship.

In my office there was a very good social scene. I went out a few times after work with the colleagues of my team. In addition to that we were quite a lot of interns in Guildford, so we went out for drinks regularly after work. However this is likely to be different in other offices (particularly in regional offices), where fewer interns are based.

Guildford is generally very expensive, however the relatively high internship salary considers this to some extent.

There are a few bars and clubs in Guildford, however particularly during in the summer the nightlife is rather quiet. London is however only a 40 minute train ride away.

I think there is a company football team, but other than that I am not aware of many social activities outside of work available.