Retail Design Intern Review

My placement with L'Oréal has been a huge learning curve that I am very grateful for. I feel the experience I have gained through my role has set me up for a successful career after I graduate. I have gained knowledge of not only my specific job role but the industry and brands too. I was given high level of responsibility that although was challenging at times has been highly rewarding and I have developed my skills in so many areas because of it. Overall my placement has been extremely positive and the support from both my manager and my team has been exactly what I needed and never felt I had no one to turn to with questions.

I felt highly valued by my colleagues and always felt as a contributing member of the team. The friendliness, support and humour of my team was a big part of my enjoyment of the placement. I appreciate being placed in a lovely welcoming team which ranged from managers to directors all of whom I felt comfortable and confident to ask for help and advice.

My manager went above and beyond for me, any time I needed help or support either professionally or personally. I was able to get frequent 1-on-1's especially at the beginning so I could get regular guidance on projects and also discuss any questions I had and areas I wanted to develop. They also allowed me to make mistakes without feeling like I was failing.

On a daily basis I was always busy, there is always something to do in the team which at the time may become quite stressful and I did occasionally work late hours. However, on reflection I do appreciate all the extra work I took on as I have allowed me to develop my skills, time management and efficiency.

I was given a lot of responsibility and this gradually increased as my placement went on. I was fortunate to take on a few important project including in-store roll outs, launches and events and leading these has been a huge achievement for me. I felt like a valued member of my team and the brand.

I have learned a new program which I will be able to take through into my degree and further career. I have also developed on the programs I already knew and am much more efficient with them which will assist me in my final year. My time management and efficiency has greatly improved and has set me up for a successful work ethic for the future.

I enjoyed the office atmosphere as generally it was busy and fun, there was always a lot of buzz and you feel involved with all the projects going on. We have a dedicated area for our team which helped with communication and team sprit and made friends with other interns which gave me opportunities to move around the department.

Although I was the first full year intern for the team it was very organised and I feel I have gained a lot out of it. From the beginning meet and greets with the team were set up along with learning the basics before the previous 6 month intern left.

There were lots of opportunities for learning online and in talks. I would highly suggest you go to these. I unfortunately didn't attend many training sessions usually due to the workload, in the future If I was to return to L'Oreal I would definitely take the time to go to the sessions.

With the talent track scheme introduced I am looking forward to seeing what specialised jobs become available for returning to the company. For others the grad scheme is a really good stepping stone to get into a managerial role quickly.

We had a social committee, our president was a hard worker at organising event and I always made an effort to try and attend all of them. I made a good group of friends who I will stay in touch with in the future and they were a big part of my enjoyment at L'Oreal.

The living costs are extremely high. I would suggest setting budgets from day 1 and bringing lunch/coffee in. The location is convenient but not cheap so most of your salary will go straight towards rent, bills and general living costs I found it hard to save.

Nightlife is not a strong point of Hammersmith/Fulham area however the pubs are really nice. Going into central London is generally where you would find a proper night out.

There is a local dance studio which I attended in the first 6 months of my placement which I thoroughly enjoyed. Also there are various gyms in the area, Better gym being one of the more affordable ones. In terms of activities we would do mini golf and go to the cinema often as a group of interns.