Marketing Intern Review

The year placement was really challenging. They don't lie when they say you get lots of responsibilities! I've managed my own projects and launched products, and have been exposed to plenty of areas of the business which is equally useful and insightful.

At my team I wasn't treated as an intern. The work that I do that the contributions that I've made are valued, I feel, by every member of our team.

My line managers have been very supportive and provided me with lots of guidance to help me excel in my work. They are very open, approachable, and happy to pass on their knowledge and expertise to me.

There is a lot to do, with not enough manpower or resources to support. At times it can feel really straining and stressful, and my consolation was that many workplaces don't offer this level of exposure and responsibility.

There have been moments where I represented my team and made decisions, in the absence of senior managers. And my decisions were respected by the wider team.

You're dealing with real people, real clients, and making decisions and working on projects that really matter and affect the brand. Having this level of responsibility, and dipping my fingers in all sorts of work really helps you to develop your confidence, communication skills, attention to detail, and resilience. Most importantly, the year placement has helped me to become more self-aware. I recognise what my strengths and weaknesses are and what I need to work on.

The office is full of people many of the times and it is quite lively. We work in different brands so sometimes it can feel like we're all in our own little silos. In my own team, there are moments where everyone gets on with their work and there's a period of silence, but most of the time the atmosphere is really relaxed and everyone is really friendly. We like grabbing a tea or coffee together in the morning, and we're great at bringing snacks to share!

I was given a 3 week induction, organised by my line manager, to introduce me to the company, the brand, the people and my role.

The firm invests in you through e-learning modules and events/workshop from time to time. The problem is I had so much work to do (and you can't access the e-learning platform at home) that I don't have time for personal training and development. Much of the skills you develop are down to what you learn in the role.

L'Oreal seems to be a meritocratic company, but you need to work really hard and really over and above to climb up the ladder.

The intern committee arranges regular events and socials for the cohort. They also send a monthly newsletter on topics of interest, and arrange professional and CSR activities like getting LinkedIn profile pics taken and blood donation awareness events.

We are in London after all, so food, travel and social activities can get really pricey, especially if you're going often.

We're 20 mins away from central London! Everywhere is pretty easy to reach.

As we're in London, I'm sure there are plenty of activities we can get involved with outside of work. However, the matter is I didn't have much time to do anything and I live just outside of London, so I miss out on a lot of after work activities.