Summer Vacation Student - Risk Advisory Review

On the whole, the experience has been really interesting and worthwhile. I've had the chance to learn a lot of skills: I was in a Data team as part of Risk Advisory in a regional office. I got the chance to learn some web development/coding, as well as Excel skills and shadowing opportunities. I've pretty much been busy the whole 6 weeks and the work-load has been consistent.

At this very junior level, and particularly as you are only here a short time; the work you get is never going to be super important or complex. Therefore, it is unlikely anyone is ever going to massively value your input on things. However, that's not to say that you won't get good feedback for making effort and having a good attitude (probably two of the most important things when doing a scheme like this). On a more personal level, I felt like a part of the team and very included when it comes to talking with colleagues/social events.

I was always encouraged to ask questions and say if I was stuck with something. You are never left completely on your own when working. However, expect to be stretched. Everyone in the firm is pretty intelligent and expectations are relatively high. You'll be expected to try and work things out for yourself as much as possible, but that is part of the learning process. There were obviously times where I felt like I didn't know what I was doing, but there is always someone on hand to explain/provide assistance with tasks. In terms of actually receiving advice about what it's like to work here; that was really comprehensive. I learned all about the culture/pay/opportunities/conditions during my time, and people were always willing to talk about their experience working for Deloitte and other comparative firms.

It probably depends on your module choices/degree title. I'm a Banking student, so obviously some of what I was doing was not relevant (but interesting, nonetheless). I have learned the basic structure of a website and improved my Excel skills which is likely to help in some modules. The main asset is the name on your CV, being able to say you have been/spoken to Deloitte clients and learned from some of the best people in the industry. I've had the chance to shadow directors and network with Partners/senior managers which is obviously beneficial for your future career in terms of gaining insight and making connections. I also feel a lot more informed in terms of what I'd like from my career and the potential options available to me.

I had work booked for me for the whole 6 weeks which kept me busy, as well as some ad-hoc work. The induction is fantastic as you get to meet loads of interns from other offices, stay overnight in a hotel and socialise/learn more about the company. There is also a meal with drinks provided and some skills-based sessions. This sets you up really well as if you're in a regional office, it gives you the chance to meet the other interns who will be working in the same place as you.

The general atmosphere was professional (obviously) but really enjoyable. It is quite a "young" firm in the sense that everyone is quite sociable and talkative; there's always someone to sit and have lunch with in the canteen area, or a friend from another department you can message. I would advise joining in as much stuff as possible: this will mean you are more inclined to meet people and have a better experience. In my case, I was only here 6 weeks so I didn't have long to make an impression and meet people!

The induction as the start was good and sets you up for your internship. There is also an element of flexibility in terms of the work you do while you're here; if there is something that really interests you and you want to get involved in it then (depending on availability etc.) you might have the chance to work on a particular project, which is great for your development and exposure. As a grad, there is obviously loads of training, the chance to do professional qualifications and further training throughout pay grades (this is obviously more relevant to grad schemes post-internship, but it's something you'll learn about while you're here and is important if you want to convert onto the graduate scheme).

I feel like I have a good, rounded idea of the working environment and what is required of those who work here permanently. I've had the chance to talk to lots of different people who work in different areas of Risk Advisory (as well as Tax and Audit... depending who you meet at the induction!). Obviously your time here is limited, but the experience I have had has been very varied and therefore (I feel) a fairly accurate representation of what it's like to work with Deloitte. The impression I have had has been very good and pursuing a graduate role here is something I am very interested in doing.

Same as above - the more people you talk to/interact with, the better understanding you will have of the culture and what it's like to work here.

I now have a much better idea of where my skills would fit in with a career in Deloitte. I am keen to join the same service line that I have been in during my internship.

Any expenses incurred travelling to/from client site are reimbursed (train/driving). I was also luckily enough to go to Manchester a meal with a partner and a team working with a client there and stay in a hotel, all of which was covered by the firm.

Yes, loads. The opportunities are there, but you need to be proactive in making the best use of them: go to the social events/after work drinks, introduce yourself/talk to people and make yourself known.

It is a very social firm. There are lots of events, particularly around Christmas etc. as well as graduate socials.

I know there are opportunities to do charity/volunteering work with charity partners that Deloitte represents; this is something I would definitely be keen on doing if I was to come back as a graduate.

Definitely. It's a great way to get a snapshot of what it's like to work in one of the Big 4; the experience on your CV alone will be a great asset even if you decide that a future role with the company isn't for you.