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A great insight into BP and it's operations. I gained very valuable knowledge about the Oil & Gas industry and procurement as well as developing my softer skills in a commercial function.

Colleagues were continuously commending me on the work done, and were very eager to see the final product. I had interacted with over 70 colleagues in my department and nearly all were very enthusiastic about the work I had done.

My Line Manager was there at every stage should I need guidance on who to contact and how to deal with difficult situations. My team were also very supportive of my work. Praise was given by senior management, and this support enabled me to progress more quickly and effectively.

Sometimes too many meetings meant that I was unable to physically deliver work. I ended up working from home in the evenings to meet deadlines.

I was given full responsibility of delivering my project and was accountable for any delays to set milestones. For this project I interacted with procurement specialists all the way to Chief Procurement Officer and Chief Finance Officer.

I mainly developed commercial organisation skills for example how to manage stakeholders, dealing with people, negotiation, real-life project management etc. These skills will benefit me more in future working life than in my degree. I developed my technical knowledge of the procurement process from no experience to some proficiency.

Serious work was being done, and the atmostphere reflected this. There were a few laughs and informal chats. It was what I had expected.

The application process was seamless; the Graduate HR team worked very hard to ensure all the information was provided at the right time via an online system. Once I arrived there was a full-day introduction to BP and this was supported by the intern and graduate network. My team provided me with a plan for the first 2 weeks to help get me started and not have boring/empty days (this was not standard across BP, my Line Manager did this for me).

My Line Manager was happy to send me on whatever training I was interested in and could attend. I was also able to access all e-learning. My team also paid for me to travel to Aberdeen to meet a supplier so that I could put my new skills to the test. I was unsupported in the meeting, which showed their confidence in my ability.

Looking very promising, althought I have since decided to apply for another function within the business as procurement isn't for me.

I didn't live where the majority of the interns lived, so I had less of a social experience.

Outer London living, however BP did provide a significant location allowance for working in this area.

It is possible to venture into more central London, however I was staying in Uxbridge which is a quieter suburb with lots of pubs, but lacking in proper nightlife.

Lots of clubs and activities to do during and after work.