Week 2 has been 'surreally good’; it's difficult to know where to begin!

I feel I've been more productive at work, having gained a better understanding of the insurance market and complex organisational structures. It's been made a lot easier with the help of my manager, who has coped admirably under my bombardment of questions! I'm gaining a further understanding of the nature of my project, and without wanting to go into the specifics; it feels that the assignment will form quite an integral part of the overall strategic analysis being undertaken by the department at the moment.

I've been just as productive on my lunch breaks. I had the company of Willy McColgan, an expat working in the Claims department of LM, on Monday, and was then taken out to lunch by my manager, Eddie on Tuesday. They were fantastic opportunities to gain an insight into how they both developed through their careers to end up here, and pick up ideas and tips on how to progress myself. Both talked modestly of their achievements to date, but its clear that they have worked incredibly hard to reach where they are today. The American work ethic is overwhelming. Most of the people I've spoken to have achieved MBA qualifications, gained whilst balancing a full-time job, and their dedication has to be admired. It was inspiring to meet a Scot on Wednesday who certainly possessed such qualities. We had the pleasure of meeting Helen Sayles over lunch, who is the Global Scot and responsible for facilitating the work placements at LM. She explained why she was so keen to get involved with the Global Scot and Saltire Foundation network, talking about the potential we have, but often don’t capitalise on in Scotland. The culture in Scotland needs to be changed to one that promotes a more can do attitude, one with drive and ambition to succeed. Her words filled us with the confidence that we could escape this mindset, and exceed our potential through hard work, determination and belief.

I have also come to realise the importance of networking. Although my experience was not work related, one email to a distant contact and I found myself with a rare opportunity. On Tuesday after work I was invited out to Ipswich (just outside Boston) where I was treated to speed boat lessons around a beautiful marsh land, picnic on a deserted island while watching a stunning sunset!  My week continued to get even better when I made a trip to Fenway to see Celtic play Sporting Lisbon. The Irish rather than the Scots were out in force but the atmosphere was still great and to put the icing on the cake Celtic won on penalty kicks, much to Colin’s disdain!

The weekend continued to be action packed and boat themed. On Saturday we all took a boat to the harbour islands where we relaxed, played soccer, sunbathed and listened to a live band in the scorching sun...yes I got sun burnt again but sadly I can’t blame Alison this time!

On Sunday Colin and I took a leisurely walk around Harvard University before heading back to the wharf to catch a boat out to sea to whale watch. We were ridiculously lucky as we saw whale after whale feeding around us, their large tails slapping the water; it was definitely an experience I will never forget!

Hope everyone is having an awesome time!

Camilla xx