Placement Year Review at Valero

The Role

Role Description

I didn't have daily duties as I was on a new program which was part of creating the running program.
My main tasks involved the creation of a database to monitor the condition of the impulse lines on site [around 7000+ over the refinery]. This involved researching them, going out and seeing them, liaising with inspection/mech. engineers and computer programming.
I also had to write a manual for the maintenance of one of the most important columns on the refinery. This involved researching it's current and previous standards, past failures and inspections, and looking at the column through various viewpoints to capture its entirety.
Various large pieces of equipment broke down and were taken out of service so I had a number of days looking at the mechanics behind the moving machinery which was extremely rewarding

1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Very much enjoyed it. Was very good to be in the working environment

2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I was given tasks by people above me and was treated as though there were no differences between our positions

3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

If I needed any help I could ask anybody and they would give me whatever help they could

4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I was given projects that would last over a number of months so I was always occupied

5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I created a database which is to be used to routinely check components over the refinery, so it was important that flaws were minimal and that it could be relied on

6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

Seeing the equipment will help me with the theoretical side that I learn from my studies

The Organisation

7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I was in a number of offices and even had my own office for a few months; I worked in a relaxed environment so I was always comfortable

8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

It was an introductory scheme for mechanical so I had to help with ideas for work to be done

9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I was sent on a number of courses which cost a lot of money each and they were very worthwhile

10. What were the perks on your work placement?

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

• Subsidised Canteen
• Subsidised/Company Gym
• Above 25 days holiday

11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

Looks good

Other Information

12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Everyone would get together for various events to socialize

13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

Living was fairly cheap, though having a car was expensive

14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Weekends were great fun

15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I tried my hand at climbing and spent a lot of time in the gym

In addition to these questions, is there any extra information you would like to leave about your experiences on your work placement that other students may be interested in?

The opportunity to see many pieces of large and rare equipment was around and so it is highly recommended to go here; the experience was invaluable