Commercial Intern Review

My role was based on analyzing the strength of how activities in different activities were performing and using this to decide which activities are worth displaying on the live site and which should be removed. This analysis mainly happened in Excel and I compiled large data set sheets of our inventory to track performance and pull together different metrics to help make these decisions. I would work on this daily in collaboration with another intern teammate and was supported by the wider activities team, who I was in contact with around 3 times a week.

In terms of technical skills, my Excel and data trend analysis skills have developed greatly. This included making PIVOT tables, doing VLookups and manipulating huge data sets to make trends identifiable. I have also learnt how to use other softwares such as Tableau, Sales Force and internal platforms. My presentation skills have improved hugely from presenting our project findings to large groups of other interns but also to managers, which has really improved my confidence. I have learnt so much about the travel industry as a whole, and especially the activities space, which has been so interesting.

I was given a lot of responsibility, which really made me feel like my work was meaningful and let me take initiative over my work. The project that I worked on during my time was an ongoing project within the activities team and many of the account managers reached out to me to thank me for the work and how helpful it was to them, which made me feel that my work was valued. I was constantly supported by the wider team if I felt confused, so the balance between autonomy and responsibility and being helped if needed was perfect.

I felt that I had all the support I needed, ranging from my direct manager who made sure I felt comfortable to reach out with anything at all I might have needed, to the wider activities team who were available to answer any questions as well. Everyone I worked with made sure to reach out to me frequently to check in on how I was doing, and I had a specific team navigator who helped and supported me throughout the whole internship. Everyone made me feel like they wanted to support me and no question/concern was silly and were always helpful, kind and patient.

The company culture really made this internship enjoyable. Everyone I met has been so respectful, kind and welcoming, which made me feel valued at Expedia and not that I was 'just an intern'. There were many fun social events, some just for the interns and others for the whole office, which were great opportunities to network and socialize. I really appreciate Expedia's commitment to diversity and inclusion, and there were really great events that I attended organized by these initiatives which were really valuable.

This internship exceeded my expectations in terms of doing meaningful work, being part of such an amazing culture, and how great everyone was to work with. I gained so much knowledge about the online travel industry and skills needed in professional environments as well.

Yes

From my experience, being very well prepared on what Expedia does, their values and initiatives helped me greatly in the interview, especially being able to name specific examples. The interviewers all made me feel comfortable and relaxed, which helped me put my best foot forward. I would have love to have known how welcoming and supportive the company culture is before, so I would have felt less nervous about starting.