This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.
Rating
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The Role
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The Company
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The Culture
- 1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?
- 2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?
- 3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?
- 4. How busy were you on a daily basis?
- 5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?
- 6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?
- 7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?
- 8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?
- 9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?
- 10. What were the perks on your work placement?
- 11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?
- 12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?
- 13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?
- 14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?
- 15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?
The Role
When I asked about my manager at the welcome drinks on the first day, one of the senior directors present grinned "Oh, you're gonna have fun!" And indeed I found the working environment very motivating and encouraging. My experience has been nothing but positive.
I feel very lucky to have had the chance to work with such wonderful people. At no point was I left floundering without getting any help when I asked for it. And I really was made to feel a part of the team both in and outside work.
Nothing was left unanswered whenever a question was raised. Within days I managed to learn who specialised in what and whom to address my concerns to.
The programme really does strike an almost perfect balance between desk specific responsibilities and more general training activities. We even had the chance to take part in a volunteering scheme outside company premises.
Obviously since I was very new, I was not directly in charge at first. However, with time as I grew more confident I gradually managed to take on more responsibility.
I did learn a lot, and not just division specific, but also had a great insight into the world of banking. This experience will be, I am sure, extremely valuable not just at uni, but in future job applications and even in life.
The Company
The working atmosphere during my 9 weeks at the desk was extremely friendly and supportive. It was very evident right from the start my colleagues were great professionals, but at the same time very modest and affable.
I wouldn't change anything - it was a perfect combination of desk specific responsibilities and general business training and networking events.
We were given extensive training in a variety of areas. There was little formal division specific training per se, but I was provided with all the theoretical and information I needed to come and stay on board.
Company Parties/Events
I really loved my time at the desk and with my colleagues. I would be delighted if I could continue working with them.
The Culture
The interns network was very closely-knit. I dare say a lot of us made friendships for life and I feel particularly fortunate.
I was based in Canary Wharf, which is not the cheapest place to have fun. On the other hand having lived in Helsinki for so many years I was actually (positively!) surprised by the prices.
Personally I am not a clubber - I can't really give a valuable comment on that question.
London of all places does offer plenty of such opportunities.
Details
Internship (1 Month+)
London
August 2015