Electrical Engineering Intern Review

Great work environment - everyone really takes into account that you're an intern in the sense that they take time to teach you things, help you with your work etc. You're also given real work to do, as opposed some mini project they made up just for you.

I felt valued because I was doing work that they would have had to do themselves if I wasn't there. You do sometimes end up feeling that they could have done a better job than you though, although thats not a fault of the internship system.

I had a line manager for work, and a mentor for more general support. Both were excellent, having done this with other interns before. My line manager had everything sorted out in respect to my project, introductory guidance, feedback during my time here etc. But I've heard this can be a bit hit and miss, as some managers aren't aware of what they should be doing or are simply too busy to do it.

Busy most days, although once in a while (maybe 5 or 6 days out of the 3 months) I had slow days. They do expect you to go and find some work for you to do by yourself though, and you're given opportunities to do this.

Responsibility in terms of that work that I was given to do - the whole thing, prioritising tasks, specific deadlines was all left to me.

Built directly on top of what I was doing at University, and extended my knowledge that should be helpful for practical final year project work.

I have worked at more informal places, but the atmosphere works just right.

The formal internship structure thats in place is very good. How well that structure is adhered to seems to depend on your line manager, something that worked out very well in my case.

Can't really think of anything they could have done more. I went on site visits to an onshore oil field, and visited a contractor's office to see how work was done on big upcoming projects.

BP is actually actively recruiting and expanding right now, so it's a great time to apply for a grad place.

I was based in London, but work was in a remote area of Greater London. People lived in odd places so sometimes it wasn't as easy to meet up with everyone as I would've liked.

London was very expensive, but BP do pay you very well. Living and working in London is not a chance you should pass over unless money really an issue. You do make enough to support yourself throughout the internship and save some for later.

There's something for everyone in London!

Some, but most were sports like football and rounders, which wouldn't appeal to all. Also, they came more through personal contacts, which worked out fine for me but may not if you end up in a remote area.