Business Management student takes part in insightful three-day internship to boost employability

A GCU student has successfully completed an employability workshop, after searching for an internship to get involved with over the summer. 

Whilst searching for opportunities, 3rd year Business Management student Asmaa Hussain found the Bright Network Audit, Tax & Corporate Finance Internship Experience; an opportunity which allows students to gain insight and industry experience. 

After applying to take part in the workshop, Asmaa was accepted onto the three-day programme and had the chance to engage with other students and employers – while gaining skills that would help enhance her employability. 

Asmaa thoroughly enjoyed her experience. She said: “I initially got an email from Bright Network about their online diversity and inclusion event. I went to the event and enjoyed it a lot, it was great learning about the diversity and inclusion policies of big companies. 

After that, I then got an email about their three-day online internship experiences that they offered. I decided to sign up as I was unable to get a full summer internship elsewhere. They offered different workshop options, however I choose to take part in both the Professional Services & Consulting workshop and the Audit, Tax & Corporate Finance workshop experiences.” 
 
She added: “The internship mostly consisted of networking with fellow students and professionals from the big companies, a couple of the which are my dream companies to work for. We also had the chance to complete tasks similar to the work expected within the field. 
 
Asmaa learned a lot from her internship experience, and even gave her some food for thought about her future career aspirations. She said: “I have learned a lot of tips from the skill sessions offered in the internship. I was given a great insight into the consulting and financial sector which has informed my decision on my future career. 
 
I was able to learn a lot from the experience of Bright Network alumni and the company professionals. I have been given some great advice and motivational speeches that will stay with me for a long time.” 
 
After completing her experience, Asmaa has realised the importance of internships and has felt that they have prepared her for life after University. She said: “I think it’s important to try secure internships as it teaches you a lot about the application process and interviews. I learned a lot about the application process, interviews, what I want in a role, the ideal company I want to work for and most importantly the mistakes I was making.  
 
This is extremely important for graduate jobs as I feel I know what to expect and I know things I should and shouldn’t do. The most important thing is to expand your skill set and knowledge which can be done with a full summer internship or even by attending online courses, keeping up with relevant news and going to company events - especially now as things are mainly taking place online.” 

Find out more about Bright Network opportunities on their website 

By Rachael McAlonan    

Got a SCEBE or GSBS story? Email me at Rachael.McAlonan@gcu.ac.uk or connect with me on social media  here