Information, Communications and Engagement Intern Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement year with Virgin Media - I've had an amazing experience and was given opportunities I never imagined I'd have as an Intern.

I always felt valued by my team and the wider business. I was never treated like an Intern and was accepted into my role like a normal employee

My manager gave me great support. We had weekly catch ups and he was always available if I needed him. He also gave me time and guidance to complete my university work.

I was given a lot of responsibilities which kept me busy on most days. Like any jobs I've had some quiet days but on a whole, I've always had work to complete.

I was given lots of responsibility and treated the same as members of my team in the same role as their full time jobs. I was encouraged to seek development opportunities and to progress throughout the year, taking on more responsibility.

My skills have developed massively. Although I haven't learnt anything that will directly link to my degree, I've built on personal competencies which will hopefully assist me when applying for Graduate roles.

I was based in Manchester and the atmosphere of the office was fantastic. There is never a dull day at VM - there is always something new going on. Overall the environment is very relaxed, we could wear casual clothes and there isn't somebody over your shoulder watching your every move. For a student, it's a brilliant place to work as it's the opposite of corporate so isn't a shock from university. In the office we've had different vendors selling sweets, books, perfume and gifts, an eyebrow technician and engagement activities.

Overall it was well set up but for me personally I wasn't 100% sure what I was going into as there wasn't a lot of information regarding what my role would involve. Even the job description I received when successful was extremely vague. Although I came in not knowing what to expect I am so happy I got the placement on this team, it was perfect for me and I loved my role and my team. There is a lot of focus on the Intern community in head office, Hook, so it did sometimes feel that other locations were excluded from this.

I was treated like any other member of the team and encouraged to seek development opportunities to work on the skills I was keen to enhance. If I wanted to spend time shadowing other members of the team or using Ignite this was welcomed. The company and my team were keen for us to make the most of our opportunity and to take as much from the year as possible.

I wouldn't hesitate to work for Virgin Media again - it's a fantastic company. Interns are encouraged to apply for the Graduate Scheme so it's nice to know there is opportunity to stay in the company.

There is a good social scene amongst Interns and Grads. The majority are based in Hook so although we don't see each other day to day we meet up for Intern Meetings and events. Interns based in the same office are always there to catch up with.

I lived at home during my placement so didn't experience the cost of living. However Manchester has really affordable areas and a huge student community to there are lots of options for housing and socialising. The Manchester office is in Wythenshawe just outside of the city near the airport but there's lots of public transport options and it's not far from the city centre or the Trafford Centre.

Manchester nightlife is great. - there's oads of places to go out and different things to do.

There are some opportunities to get involved with activities outside of work such as a Running Club and Netball Team or team socials. However, overall there isn't a lot to get involved with.