Summer Intern, Exec Trainee Program Review

Had a really great time on the placement. It was really good to do something completely different and being in a commercial center, it was great to have to opportunity to work with the regional team to deliver a new project.

HSBC is one of the best organisations in this respect. You never feel like 'just an intern' and they really do take the time to make you feel part of the team.

Although very busy, my managers were always there to offer support. They were always willing to answer questions and advise me when needed.

Most of the time the work balance was great, however as with any placement there are times when you are too busy or too bored. I think it's partly down to the individual to manage their work balance as well.

I was given free reign over my project and general day-to-day management. I did have regular meetings with my line manager but what's great about HSBC is that if you want to take the responsibility, the opportunity is there for you.

Time and people management are invaluable skills, as well as team work and self-motivation and these are things that you will always take away with you.

The atmosphere in the office was great. It was flexible and allowed you to manage your own time. Everyone was friendly and took the time to welcome you and get to know you.

The internship was well set up, my managers had invited me to meet them a couple of weeks before my start date to get to know some of the team. They had a project lined up for me. The only drawbacks were the IT issues.

The company give you and induction weekend to get to know your peers. There is manadatory learning to be completed within your first week as well as an outline of what you should be learning throughout your internship.

Would love to work for this organisation in future and with numerous grad schemes to choose from prospects are promising for most interns.

Socials were organised regularly between the interns and I think being based in London means that its much easier to co-ordinate with other London interns. As we're based all around the country it is harder to meet up with everyone but days are organised mid internship and at the end for us all to get together.

Living in London, prices are always going to be higher than in other cities but it's still manageable and possible to have a really good time.

Central london,you can't really get bored. It's expensive but there are plenty of free activities to do during the weekends and in the summer especially it is jam packed.

There are quite literally endless opportunities to get involved. From the GCC that fundraise for charity and put on numerous events, to sports teams, if you want to participate, it's there.