Because of my interest in business and data analysis inspired by aspects of my psychology degree.
Web searching for consultancy firms and emailing them directly
There was no formal application process - I emailed the company introducing myself and asked if they had any places available for an intern.
They were a local firm who specialise in finance - this is an area I would like to progress into and was lucky enough to work with ICAEW accountants.
-Using Microsoft Excel and other financial/accounting software to look at forecasts and keeping track of money that has been borrowed.
-Helping to produce presentations for potential clients
-Triaging emails between clients and senior staff
-Helping to develop CPD's
A typical day would start around 9 and would involve speaking to my mentor (Alex) one of the company's accountants who would then discuss with me various targets we had to get through. Alex and myself would then look through our database of clients and discuss who we were financing and why, or why not. Over the week he helped me understand how to interpret some of their finance reports in which I would then report to him how much money was leaving and entering the company's account. Other activities include producing presentations using 'Prezi' for those clients who we wanted to finance. This would involve us explaining how our money can be used to help the client's company and explained the 'reshaping' process that is required. I would have lunch around 12:30 for an hour before getting back to work. The day would finish around 5 in which I would then relay back to my mentor various targets I had completed.
Learning intricacies of consulting and being able to work with people who are experts in their field.
Understanding the data analysis in such a short space of time.
Data analysis and mathematical skills particularly. But also, my written abilities in producing presentations and speaking skills.
Yes.
After graduation I will apply for business consulting graduate schemes. If I don't get a graduate scheme I will likely apply to do a business masters here at the university to help give me greater business acumen.
Don't forget to network on your placement - particularly using LinkedIn.
Form completed: 25 Sep 2019