Groups & Associations Fundraising Intern Review

It was interesting to get a greater insight into the charity sector and learn from one of the largest charity organisations in the UK. There were many opportunities to take part in additional training - for example in public engagement and media. It was ultimately the opportunities to develop that I particularly enjoyed and benefited from.

I often recieved positive feedback for my work and was trusted enough by my colleagues to be given a lot of freedom. I was able to come up with my own ideas and implement them independently. It was clear that Macmillan valued their volunteers very highly and it became apparent that they would not be able to function effectively without volunteer support.

I had fortnightly meetings with my fundraising managers, in which I would present my work and recieve feedback. I would also recieve support from my manager and mentor whenever necessary.

Was fairly busy throughout my internship. As I was working on a new fundraising initiative, I was given the freedom to work on the project the way I wanted and was allowed to implement my own ideas. I therefore made my own work and was able to take control of my work load.

Was given a lot of responsibility and freedom to implement my own ideas and contact and meet with potential supporters on my own.

As I am studying Civil Engineering, there is no direct obvious and direct benefit to my degree studies. The internship did however develop a range of skills fundamental to any discipline. I developed planning and organisational skills and recieved formal training in public speaking and engagement and media. I also developed the confidence to engage with clients/supporters and gained essential office admin skills.

Friendly and good working atmosphere. Generally quite quiet, but had many opportunities to speak casually and socialise with colleagues.

Very well organised. Good induction and training sessions. Mentor scheme was similarily very well organised.

Had formal training in public engagement and media.

I will continue to volunteer with Macmillan while I continue with my university studies. I have made good connections within the charity and will continue to work as the mediator between a supporter and Macmillan in the charity partnership I set up. This continued involvement with Macmillan makes me fairly confident about future prospects.

A few socials were organised for interns during the internship. These were however organised in the London Head office and I was therefore unable to attend all of them.

Worked during the summer in Edinburgh, which is typically an expensive time to live in the city due to the festival price increases.

Edinburgh's nightlife is good throughout the year, but is particularly fun during the summer because of the festival.

Had the opportunity to volunteer for Macmillan outside of my assigned role. Also, due to only working 3-4 days a week, I had the opportunity to do lots outside of my internship.