Summer Vacation Scheme Review

I have really enjoyed my time so far with KPMG. It's been everything that I hoped it would be - I've found my team to be very engaging and I feel that my understanding of the business and their roles has increased day on day. I have also found everyone to be extremely friendly and happy to help

I have felt quite valued during my time at KPMG. This is primarily because the work I have been asked to do has had a purpose. I've been asked to produce pieces of work and then upload them to joint files - thereby seeing tangible evidence that my efforts have not gone to waste and instead are being used.

I couldn't have asked for any more support or guidance from anyone on this team. This ranges from E grades all the way through to senior managers. Regardless of level I feel that everyone has been more than happy to help me and explain the work that I am being asked to perform

I think the whole experience will hold me in good stead. Any process that involves you working as a part of a team/ unit is beneficial. In addition the excel skills I've developed (looking for specific functions) will hold me in good stead for my last year at university when I am asked to analyse masses of data.

I feel the vacation scheme was very well structured. I can clearly see how my understanding has increased day on day because the assistant manager on my team encouraged me to note down what I learnt every day. I also feel the documents received at the beginning such as the passport (a checklist of things to strive to achieve) was helpful in keeping me focused and understanding where I want to be at the end of this 4 weeks.

I found the general atmosphere to be fun, relaxed and professional. I have been lucky enough to be placed in a very welcoming team who have all contributed to me feeling very comfortable right from the start. In addition the office could be quite serious at times especially when a deadline was approaching

I feel that the firm did invest in me as they provided a range of online training courses such as how to use excel proficiently, how to deal with discrimination should it rise, and issues regarding confidentiality to name a few.

A few social events were organised at the beginning of the vacation scheme (e.g. an after work drinks) whereby all those on the vacation scheme were able to meet one another. In addition we were encouraged to meet as many people in the firm as possible - we were fully made aware that building relationships was key to success at the firm

I really enjoyed the networking/ social event opportunities which enabled me to meet people that I wouldn't have done previously.

Yes however I don't feel that this was highlighted enough. I was only made aware of this through asking my performance manager about opportunities outside of the firm. I believe it may be useful to ensure this information is made accessible to a wider range of people at the firm.

Yes because I feel it has been very beneficial to me personally. I have significantly improved my business knowledge and think that I now have a good idea of what it would be like to work for a firm like KPMG. In addition the fact this scheme is well paid reduced the pressure on me to find another job during the summer.