Menswear Internship - 10 Weeks

The overall internship experience was a positive one. I had interned at a menswear company, where I had the opportunity to be a part of the conception to execution of an entire season's collection. The process was an enriching one; however, I was tasked to tie up many loose ends of the company and didn't learn much on the role as a digital marketing/social media intern. Since the company had a staff size of only 5 full timers, I was made to count stocks individually, pack and deliver parcels daily, steam clothes etc. I would say that it wasn't the most ideal experience I had hoped for, as I paid a good sum for the intern program and was told that I wouldn't be asked to pour tea/coffee or similar things like it. Nevertheless, if you are looking for an insight of how things work in the fashion industry, this will be an eye opener for first timers who have absolutely no clue about the chaos that goes on behind the glitz and glamour of the fashion world. If you are looking into a more fulfilling role in the position you are undertaking (I was the digital marketing/social media intern), I will suggest working for bigger brands who have a more comprehensive scheme for interns.

Aside from the internship, the team at InternLondon was supportive in handling all other administrative affairs from the airport pick up to carrying out social activities for all other interns. They were responsive, easy to contact and ensured our safety/well-being at all times. However, the accommodation provided for my package (I took an off-cycle internship) wasn't great as the internet connection was extremely slow that I had to go to the library nearby to have decent access and the furnishing in the house were old (I could feel the bed springs on mine!). If you didn't sign up for the summer internship package, you're excluded in most activities and it is not the easiest experience to socialise with the other interns in the program, especially when most interns leave right after the activity is done.

In the grand scheme of things, having an overseas internship has definitely given me an edge over others when it comes to job applications. London is an amazing place to live with so much culture and things to do all the time - you will learn and gain a lot more if you mix with the locals rather than just sticking around with other interns. Although it wasn't a bummer leaving the internship, it was definitely one in leaving London.