LifeWorks and Inclusion Intern Review

This internship was rewarding, I had a high level of job-satisfaction, and I found my role as the Lifeworks & Inclusion Intern challenging but doable. As an intern, the role had a degree of autonomy; there was a significant scope for flexibility that meant that my ideas were necessary, valued and many of them were actually implemented. I was provided support from colleagues when needed. Discovery is a dynamic organization that is also committed to ensuring the health and well-being of all employees. I thoroughly enjoyed my time while working for the world-renowned non-media fiction entertainment company. I was pleasantly surprised when my experience exceed my already high-expectations of the company.

Colleagues were supportive. As an intern I benefited from the constructive progress meetings provided by HR to ensure that they I was fulfilled in my role and able to reach my potential. Interns were treated, valued and respected like all other Discovery employees.

Support was available from the get-go from my supervisor. Guidance was given when needed (e.g. if management knew a more efficient method, they would inform you) and if requested. I found Discovery to be a highly transparent organization that is aware of the benefits that communication and collaboration has on success at the individual level and at the corporate level. I was even given support by the employees of the adjacent Learning & Development team, and Recruitment team who worked closely alongside Lifeworks & Inclusion.

There was always work that needed to be completed. This is exactly what I wanted; to be fully immersed in the Discovery experience - there was an expectation for high quality work and its efficient delivery.

I was responsible for the research, coordination and implementation of initiatives (event planning) to deliver innovative solutions to existing problems; this involved liaising & collaborating with third-parties to contribute to the delivery of high quality services for internal stakeholders.

My managers and colleagues who were involved in my development and progress. They have a genuine desire to see the positive spill-over effects in my academic life, and in the preparation of my career development.Gained transferable skills: qualitative research, analytic reasoning & project development. I found the constructive criticism, advice, mentoring and support to be extremely useful; even 6 months after this internship (in my final-year of my degree) I am still reaping the benefits of the lessons learnt.

Positive - All colleagues were motivated and had a genuine interest and passion about their respective job role and the success of the organization. They were extremely welcoming. Discovery is a global corporation, we had an intern travel from the US to work in London offices briefly her ability to integrate into the team was almost effortless. The distinctive Discovery corporate culture that stands for hard-work, creativity and exploration even transcends national boundaries. Employees are recognized for their performance and talents. Employees have a sense of humour.

The work placement was well organized and structured. Tasks were thought out and scheduled prior to arrival, and the projects, key events and expectations were outlined clearly.The transition form my last interview, recruitment and first day of work was quick - which in my opinion was efficient - I have a feeling that some students may have preferred more notice.

For a 12 week internship, the amount of learning, training and development on-the-job was unexpected; the investment in time spent training and cost to provide resources materials gives an indication of how highly the firm values its interns. I was regularly invited to personal and development progress sessions e.g. Enhancing effective work relationships - Myers Briggs. The most memorable training scheme was about how to effectively utilize social-media tools to increase productivity at work and at home – “ConnectTech”. I also participated in Webinar for leadership training (hosted from US). It may be significant to mention that there is an enthusiastic Learning & Development team dedicated to personal development training and development training at Discovery,

The future employment prospects are extremely appealing; were it not for my hectic university schedule I would have gladly continued working there part-time.

Yes, offices are in close proximity a host of restaurants, cafes and a bar - in the parade area of the Business Park.

I've lived in London so long that I am accustomed to the cost of living. The cost of socializing honestly varies depending to taste. You can have a good time and it won’t be too hard on your pocket - if you know the right places to go to.

London is known for its nightlife, there is so much variety.

Yes! There was many different clubs to get involved in – running, glee etc. all of which provided opportunities to meet with other Discovery employees, who are not necessarily in your team; to socialize and build networks.