Black heritage talent programme Intern Review

The programme was a stimulating experience. Each day involved exposure to the different aspects of the KPMG such as the culture and values held by the business, the service lines provided by the business as well as the commercial aspect of the firm. There was a real sense of belonging that I witnessed with all the employees I encountered. No two days were the same!

Meeting with the employees at the firm, from recent graduates to directors, I really got a sense of how KPMG promotes inclusivity. Each member of staff I met was open, honest and was willing to spare their time to have a sound conversation. This recurring theme of inclusivity was something I witnessed throughout my time on the programme

The amount of guidance I received was plentiful but paramount. Each day was assigned to supporting my progression on the programme and how to make the most out of the insight. The areas of support and guidance varied; from becoming more commercially aware of KPMG and the service lines offered, whilst also engaging with the behavioral capabilities held by the firm.

The skills developed and the information received during the programme is essential for any career. It is always important to find a means of how you as an individual can add value to whatever organization you are apart, and understand the steps required to do so. Both through the power of your network and your individual capabilities

The insight was well structured and prepared. I received the relevant information when needed and understood the course of the programme which was outlined on the first day.

The atmosphere was very friendly and welcoming from all employees and other interns I engaged with from the first day and continued throughout the course of the programme. It was also a cultivating working environment which supported and encouraged curiosity which was something I really enjoyed. That being said, there was also an entertaining edge to insight, through the interns and employees I had the privilege to meet

The firm heavily invested in me. Not just through time but also resources such as tailored workshops for personal development as well as raising my commercial awareness. Additionally, I was selected to shadow under one of my service line preferences Audit, where I engaged with the team with the projects they were undertaking; giving me the opportunity to consider ways to add value to the firm.

Having networked with employees under the Audit department serving difference client types, I was exposed to different experiences under Audit at the different grade levels of both the intensive and empowered programme, as well as expectations to have if I was looking to consider undergoing either of the audit graduate programmes.

The programme itself provided me with an insight into the culture of the company through the employees I came across alongside workshops ran by the insight team. For example, I had a session on KPMG's cooperate social responsibility and I was amazed to find how KPMG is actively aiming to increase diversity within the workplace through means such as partnering with the Social Mobility Foundation, which I am currently apart of.

On the first day, I received an overview of the different service lines offered by KPMG from the account of employees at different grade levels. Each overview session was followed with a question and answer session. The overviews helped me to narrow down my options to my top 2 preferred service lines; audit and management consulting. Alongside these overviews, I had the opportunity to shadow under my preferred service line, audit, where I received great exposure to understand what auditing entails and its relevance for businesses. Alongside these experiences, I also had the chance to network with employees under the different service lines, who provided further insight towards my options. Moreover, the programme cemented my choice for pursuing a career within professional services under the audit department.

The system was very efficient and easy to use and the process for payment was swift

There was a networking drinks event held at the end of the programme where I managed to network with different employees under the different service lines within the firm. It was an exhilarating experience to get to meet and keep in contact with such amazing people. Yet, I realized that there is always a chance to network throughout the programme, it is what you make of it that helps you to navigate your career choices.

The networking opportunities were insightful. I was able to get in contact with a number of employees at different grade levels, who provided insight into the firm and the service lines they worked under, along with thorough guidance for my career prospects, which was enlightening

There are so many societies to be apart of at KPMG as well as volunteering opportunities you can be apart of

I cannot stress how beneficial the programme was. Without a doubt, I would recommend this programme. You have the ability to develop your skills set, your network base, and commercial awareness of the firm. Likewise, you also have the opportunity to convert the programme into a graduate role at the firm.