Foundations and Partnerships Intern, Cancer research UK Boat Races Review

This placement was a fantastic experience to gain insight into the working of a large charity and organisation. I was strongly supported to help develop and gain new skills for future use whilst being able to feel I could really contribute to the goals and aims of the charity and make a difference.

Very valued - they were keen to have my opinion and insight into the projects and I felt very much a strong part of the team. I was invited to chair and be a part of meetings, meet external stakeholders and represent the charity at external events. The general atmosphere day to day was also very welcoming.

I was offered a lot of support. Not only from my colleagues, but the placement also offered mentoring and buddying schemes as well as ongoing support from the volunteer management team. I was always able to ask questions and get advice when needed. I had weekly meetings with my manager to discuss my overall projects for the week but was also able to ask questions at any time.

The workload varied - it started off at a very manageable pace and slowly increased as my capabilities and confidence increased. I was challenged without feeling under too much pressure at any point.

The placement gave me enough responsibility to allow my skills to develop and I did feel a key member of the team. I was given my own projects and aims to complete throughout the placement as well as other day to day tasks. However, care was taken to ensure I did not feel too much pressure if I was unable to complete something in time - I was always given help when needed.

The skills and advice for job applications have been hugely beneficial. Prior to the internship, I had only been in full time study. It gave me the chance to realise the skills I had gained in academia in a very different and professional environment. I have found examples from my placement essential when applying for jobs and other schemes and feel confident I will be able to apply these skills to any new full time jobs in the future.

Very good - was a warm and welcoming environment

Very well organised. The application process was simple and well organised. Was able to arrange a Skype interview when unable to get to the interview venue for personal reasons. Frequently sent emails to check we were enjoying our placements, knew who to contact if we needed advice or help. Team were very helpful and flexible if any difficulties arose.

CRUK heavily invested in personal development of its interns and all staff. We are provided with workshop opportunities throughout the placement and sent advice on what additional roles/responsibilities we could take on to ensure we get the most out of the placement. Right from the outset, it was heabily emphasised how crucial it was to use this opportunity to develop alongside our other work.

Despite unsure economic and social times, future employment is still very appealing. I am in the application process for several and always looking for others. I would be keen to remain with this this charity due to the warm environment and excellent cause. I feel supported and encouraged to apply for future roles within the organisation.

Yes, there was a strong social scene with other interns and the other colleagues on my team. The internship group had weekly socials that everyone was invited to as well as being encouraged to meet with others for lunch etc. I feel I have been able to make friends as well as learn from the placement and have really enjoyed the whole experience.

Relatively high as in central London - but there were discounts in the local area for staff making things more affordable. Fortunately I was able to live at home with family and therefore my living costs were minimal however if I had not been able to be supported like this, it would have made the whole placement very tricky. It is only really accessible for those close to London.

Good - plenty of places to go in central London.

Yes - opportunities frequently emailed out to all staff and interns, particularly the opportunity to get involved in big campaigns such as Stand Up to Cancer. There were also other social and sporting roles to get involved in if you wanted to.