Account Manager Support Intern Review

I never thought I'd actually be able to enjoy going to work everyday of summer but it was actually the best way I could have possibly spent my summer. I got to learn many new skills that I will use for the rest of my life and earn money while doing it!

During my time at Handelsbanken I was immediately welcomed and felt part of the team within my branch, no question was ever too stupid and everyone in my team wanted me to get as much out of my internship as possible so tried to get me to do a variety of activities.

Me and my manager had formal meetings every three weeks throughout my internship to discuss my progress and any areas I feel may need further improvement, I was always able to ask questions if I was stuck and was shown how to do all tasks before I had to do them alone

The work flow varied from day to day but there was always something that I could do, even in quieter periods. I was never sat feeling bored but also I never felt as if the workload was unmanageable and consideration was always given to the fact that it would probably take me longer to do tasks than it would take experienced employees

From day one I was given the same amount of responsibility as all the other employees in the branch (within my skill range obviously). I was able to input data onto the systems, phone and write to customers and so much more! I had access to all the same systems as a regular employee.

The stuff I have learnt over my time in the internship I will be able to apply to any job after I finish my degree. This will also be hugely beneficial to my university degree as I was able to see a real example of a bank and put learning into practice

Everyone was very friendly and so helpful, it was a very positive environment and I looked forward to work every morning. We were able to have a laugh and go for lunches together regularly. I really felt valued and part of the team when I was working within my branch.

The placement was very well organised with lots of information given on starting in the bank. There was three training days at the beginning of the internship that were very informative and useful along with two other days at head office to see how the internship is going. There was also a training guide and lets of useful information

All of the managers and colleagues in my branch took the time out of their day to teach me a variety of different things including things that are part of managers roles that they didn't have to show me but knew I would be interested in. There was three training days at the beginning of the internship where we were taught a variety of things

They told us that there was plenty of opportunities for full time roles after our degrees. We are able to keep in touch with HR and managers in order to have the best opportunities for future employment after finishing my degree

Every month the region had drinks and a social event as a way of catching up with other colleagues who work in other branches. There was plenty of opportunities to socialise with other interns at the training and other internship days that took place at head office along with an internship social one evening.

The London region is always going to be a more expensive area, however, interns were placed in a location that was commutable from their current address or area they wished to live in. This kept the cost of living to a minimum and social events organised by the bank were always in cheaper locations

The nightlife was alright and if willing to travel a little further there are plenty more options for a good night out

Outside of work there was monthly leaving drinks and lots of opportunities to see colleagues