Placement Year Review at GlaxoSmithKline

The Role

Role Description

Was in charge of the crystallization of new candidate drugs, and had to perform a small investigation project parallel to my daily duties.

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

It was a very enriching experience and learned plenty of new techniques, however working for such a big corporation gave the impression that even though at small scale the personal treatment was excellent, at a larger scale everything was much more profit driven.

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

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

When things were done correctly I was always congratulated, and everyone seem to value each others effort. In general having a friendly atmosphere helped making the most of both the good time and the not so good times.

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

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

I really appreciated the dedication of my supervisors in training me, and helping me throughout the whole year. Of course, somethings I needed to work them out by myself, but if problems were encountered they were always there to support me.

4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

It was quite a demanding job, and I believe I spent more than the contracted hours on many occasions. However, I can't avoid the feeling that there is always that bit more that I could have done.

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

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

Even though for certain tasks I was allowed complete independence, I do feel in some occasions I would have liked to be more involved in other parts of the groups workload.

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

I grew not only scientifically, but also in organizational and communication skills, which I am sure will be of great use whatever direction I take in my career.

The Organisation

7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Although the personal relations where very friendly within the group, I felt a general feeling of discomfort with the current situation of the company.

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

The placement network was well in place, but I am sure there are things to improve, like more information prior starting the placement.

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Considering the salary and some of the courses I attended, I am very satisfied with the level of investment on coaching placement students.

10. What were the perks on your work placement?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

• Flexi Time
• Subsidised Canteen
• Sports and Social Club
• Subsidised/Company Gym
• National Travel
• Company Parties/Events
• Above 25 days holiday

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

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

Current situation does not look promising, but I will very much enjoy continue the experience for some time.

Other Information

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Place was not ideal for students, but considering the amount of placement students, we managed very well, and had great times throughout the year.

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

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

Depended on the place, it wasn't to expensive but not as cheap as university.

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

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

Not very student focused, but still had fun with fellow placement students in house parties.

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

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

Reasonable opportunities, but maybe just not fitted for what I was looking for, i.e. football team.

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?

I would definitely do this again, and I would recommend doing it to everyone. I guess as well, many people say it, but is very important to do it, "try to save some money, but don't let it stop you from having good fun!"

Review 231/231 for GlaxoSmithKline

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