Blackpool student Lexie completed a paid internship with mentor Hayley at Allianz UK in Manchester. Find out how their experience led to both learning from a fresh perspective on work.
“I signed myself up to be a mentor for the opportunity to work with a young person who was developing their own thoughts about their future career, and to develop my own personal skills,” says mentor Hayley Reilly, a Senior Commercial Motor Underwriter at Allianz.
Through Career Ready, Hayley was matched with Lexie Simmons, a student at Blackpool Sixth Form College. The two hit it off quickly.
Making the most of an internship
Over summer, Lexie experienced a four-week paid internship alongside her Hayley at Allianz – one of four interns at their Manchester base, and several others across the UK.
“My internship experience was incredibly positive and insightful,” says Lexie. “It allowed me to learn more about the industry and apply what I’d previously learnt on the programme in a real workplace.
“I developed many personal and professional skills: networking, marketing, communication, and what it means to be professional in the workplace. I also learnt more about the inner workings of a global organisation, and that Allianz is more than just insurance.”
During her internship, Lexie completed a personal and group project and networked with colleagues, learning about their roles and career journeys – including the CEO. Her attitude and hard work were recognised with nominations for Allianz’s internal STAR awards.
Hayley adds: “It’s been great to see the contacts Lexie is making, pushing herself further out of her comfort zone, whilst working within the team during the internship. She’s also encouraged her peers, getting the best out of them too.
“I also feel strides were made in terms of her prioritisation and organisational skills. Not only work-related but being on time and working hard. Many days of which Lexie was there early and she always ensured something was finished before going home.”
Fresh perspectives
The internship brought fresh perspectives on work to both Hayley and Lexie.
“I feel that day to day, you can get lost in work,” Hayley explains. “Having someone like Lexie wanting to understand the working office environment meant highlighting the small things as the most important – like the positive atmosphere in the office, or friendly and welcoming colleagues who are open to having conversations.
“I know after the internship, the four interns who spent their time in Manchester really changed their opinion on working in an office, so we’ve successfully challenged some of the stereotypes associated with it!”
For Lexie, her time at Allianz has helped her consider her options.
“The internship has given me an invaluable insight into what I would like to do next,” she says. “I’m leaning more towards exploring opportunities for degree apprenticeships over the more traditional route of university.
“It’s also made me realise that Allianz would be a great option for me to learn more about business. I’m excited to keep in contact with my connections at Allianz to help me with this next step of my journey.”
Learning about yourself
As both now reflect on the programme, they’d encourage others to take part in future and embrace the opportunity.
“From a mentee and a mentor’s perspective, it’s a well-rounded experience,” says Hayley. “I feel each of you learn more about yourself.
“It has been great to see how Lexie has flourished in this programme, constantly gaining incredible feedback. It’s absolute credit to her and her drive to succeed.”
“My advice for the next cohort of interns would be to throw themselves into the experience,” Lexie adds. “Maximise the full potential of it and be inquisitive about the business and the different roles within the company.”
