Local Policy Engagement Intern Review

My internship was really interesting and valuable and does develop skills that you may not otherwise have the chance to develop.

In terms of the project I was working on I felt valued, however there was some conflicting instruction over what I should be doing and how which made me feel like I was wasting my time on some occasions.

There is a huge emphasis on learning development and ensuring that you have the support to do this. My manager, Ed, was fantastic at providing this.

I could manage my workload over the week which was great for me as some days I was more productive than others and I could balance that to ensure that I remained a similar level of busy throughout my time.

I wasn't given much responsibility during my internship. As it is such a big charity and our team was such a tiny one within it, there are long sign off processes which vastly reduce the responsibility you are able to have.

As I had done a degree in policy and a previous internship in policy, I don't think I personally developed my skills hugely. However, I did gain fantastic experience in a great charity which then enabled me to apply for, and get, a job at the end.

Everyone is really passionate about the cause here so generally the atmosphere was good. Our directorate is much quieter than other parts of the building which I like, but others may not.

As we are such a new team, there was a general idea as to what my internship was meant to achieve however the details and timings around it only became clear the further I got into it. In terms of starting and getting to know people I worked with and others in the department, the charity was incredibly well set up to do this with inductions and meetings and information which was really helpful.

They talk a lot about personal development and training and while there are some opportunities, the manager of our team wasn't keen to let me experience anything that was outside of core work which was shame.

Future employment prospects are really appealing, they have varied, well-paid positions advertised all the time. I actually got a job in a different department.

I think there is a good social scene within some departments - especially fundraising and marketing as there were more interns in that department - there were less opportunities for those outside of this directorate.

I live in central work so outgoing costs per month are around £700 if you are on a budget

Nighlife in Angel and the surrounding areas is pretty good - lots of bars etc but it is expensive

There were many opportunities to volunteer at events which was great