Summer Intern Review

I spent eight weeks as a summer intern in PA Consulting's Energy & Utilities strategy team, supporting a client project on encouraging the shift to clean energy. Day to day, I gathered and checked data from external sources for inputting into models and joined regular client updates. I also co-created a bid-writing workshop for SMEs and charities with the other interns.

Yes, I was given real responsibility. I owned a key part of the data gathering, regularly shared findings with the client, and wrote a section of the final deliverable. My manager gave me room to run with things, then reviewed my work.

Yes, I developed several skills. I became more confident with financial modelling and with explaining the assumptions behind it. My research and data skills improved, especially around finding and checking information. I also got better at communicating findings clearly, working to deadlines in a team, and acting on feedback.

I received a good level of support throughout. I had a line manager who set direction, gave regular feedback and reviewed my work, and a buddy I could go to for day-to-day questions. I was also given space to work independently, so the support felt balanced rather than overbearing.

Really friendly and collaborative. People were approachable, including more senior colleagues, and happy to answer questions if I had any. The atmosphere was supportive rather than competitive. As an intern, I felt included in the external project team and encouraged to contribute.

I really enjoyed it. The work was genuinely interesting and felt really impactful. I also learnt a lot in the time I was there. Furthermore, it gave me a clear view of what consulting involves day to day.

Yes