Spring Intern Review

The spring week at Unilever was a really enjoyable experience and gave me a unique and thorough insight into the multinational organisation. As an insight intern, you are provided with a unique tour of the offices, with the opportunity to listen to presentations take part in activities and indulge in free Ben & Jerry’s ice cream!

During the insight week, I was made to feel really valued. The HR team was very supportive and took the time to get to know each of our names and university backgrounds. Furthermore, every employee that I met was very warm and seemed to be genuinely interested in each of us.

There was plenty of support and guidance available, removing any stress from the insight programme! The HR team did everything in their power to make the experience as enjoyable as possible. A clear timetable was provided as well as a list of phone numbers should we need them. Throughout the programme, we were always accompanied by a member of staff who was on hand for support and to answer questions.

As this is a short programme, I don't think the insight will directly impact on my degree studies, however, I believe that the skills developed on the insight week will help me for life. I had the opportunity to develop my networking and communication skills, and I cannot put into words how much this insight week helped to develop my confidence.

I really could not fault the structure of this programme and everything was seamlessly planned! The activities were well organised and I found there to be a good balance between skill-sessions and networking opportunities, making this a really well rounded insight. The structure of the programme really ensured that we got the most out of Unilever.

I found there to be a really great atmosphere on this insight programme! The interns quickly bonded as a group, which instantly put me at ease. This helped to generate a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Furthermore, the staff at Unilever were some of the most friendly people I have ever met and this was reflective of the atmosphere and culture at the firm.

Whilst this wasn't a work placement and there was no formal training, it was clear that the company invested a considerable amount on the programme and provided all food, accommodation and travel expenses for those of us there - it definitely felt like they were keen to give us considerable insight into the company and help prepare us for the Selection Day on the Friday by teaching us about Unilever and how they work as a business. Furthermore, all of the session were aimed at our personal development.

The spring programme gave me a great insight into my department and how it would be like to have a full time role with the company. During your time at Unilever you’ll have the opportunity to talk with many people from different roles and everyone is willing to share a glimpse into their work.

The culture of the company was vital to the insight programme. It really shone through that Unilever is sustainable and a fun place to work. This was demonstrated from the UK Chairman who was clearly enthusiastic about the company, through to the Industrial Placement students who had clearly enjoyed their placements.

I found the content to be extremely valuable. The insight at Unilever opened my eyes to so many different business functions and career paths, especially ones that I had not yet considered. I have come away with a better understanding of the career path that I wish to pursue and the content was key to this.

I was reimbursed all of my travel expenses and food and accommodation was provided.

Yes, there were plenty of opportunities for networking and meeting a wide range of employees.

All of the networking and social events were enjoyable and informative.

Yes, there are plenty of opportunities for Unilever employees, such as sport team, an onsite gym and volunteering opportunities.

Yes, I would absolutely recommend this insight to a friend!