Intern Review

The programme was split in to weeks and days with each day comprising of different tasks and activities. In the first week we completed workshops on different skills required in employment such as team leadership, business writing, networking, negotiation, team work, coaching, feedback and communication. This consisted of various tasks most of which were group tasks. We were also given an in-depth insight into the financial sector, the company, what they do and what kind of jobs we could potentially take up in the future. During work experience week we shadowed our mentor at a client base. I personally went to a cereal factory where I helped to handle financial reports. I handled data on excel and shadowed the other accountants and employees as they did their work.

In the process I was able to pick up various new skills due to the constant feedback. I developed my leadership skills as well as my listening skills among other skills. More importantly though, the feedback helped me to recognise my best skills and the skills I needed to improve.

The programme was very enjoyable. Being able to experience it with like minded people was a highlight. Although, it did get tiring at times the mentors and programme facilitators made sure we had sufficient breaks and fun break out sessions. The trip to London was also very enjoyable. I would definitely recommend it and have done so.

The programme was extremely well structured. We knew what tasks and activities we would be doing weeks ahead and would even know what lunch we would be receiving days in advance. We were given an introduction to the day's activities each morning and reminders in the evenings and on the weekends in case we needed to bring anything in.

We received free lunch, constant reminders that we could speak about any concerns and mentors throughout and after the programme finished. So yes, we received a great deal of support. The feedback during and after the programme was very useful and professional. We were encouraged during the process and congratulated after completion.

The qualifications were quite new to most individuals. Most people had not done anything similar previously. So many struggles. However, people were free to ask for support. It could be said however that individuals didn't feel as if they had received an adequate explanation of the tasks so found themselves struggling even more.

The qualification opened my eyes to aspects of team leadership is. It changed my perspective and even my definition of team leadership. It has helped me in my role to take a more collaborative approach to leadership and develop strong, trusting and open relationships with team members so that members feel confident enough to share their thoughts and ideas.

Immediately after the event finished we did not hear anything from our employer. Not until months after did we hear about alumni schemes and that they do plan to develop social activities and professional networking events for the future. One such event I attended was another workshop on planning for the new year. This was very useful.

Yes

It opened my eyes to the wealth of oppurtunities and options out there. It also helped me to network with like minded people, to make good friends. I was able to develop new skills, understand my strengths and development points. I also gained a very useful qualification and some money to compensate for the days lost of potential work.

Be yourself, enjoy yourself and jump in with open ears and a voice that wants to be heard. It is a great opportunity to learn more about yourself, what your capable of and what you want to do. In the process you'll learn loads of skills and tips. You'll also have some great conversations with some great people who are also on the journey with you.