Placement Year Review at University of Hertfordshire

The Role

Role Description

I was responsible for supporting the wide range of activities offered by UKRA, aiding the recruitment, training and administration of the ‘Student Ambassador’ programme, employing over 200 current University students to support the running of events including Open Days, school visits, promotional activities and many more. A part of my role involved supporting the planning and delivery of events aimed at increasing the awareness of Higher Education among young people and the delivery of regular Student Life talks. I had the opportunity to attend several Higher Education Fairs as a representative of the University of Hertfordshire. My commitment and hard work was recognised and as a result I was asked to get more involved in the activities of the office, for example I organised an Outreach event – STEM Fair 2011. Among the skills developed during the year were: organisation, communication, time management, team work, leadership, presentation and IT skills.

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

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

A lot of responsibility, continuous challenges, good atmosphere at work.

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

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

I felt highly valued within my team and organisation as a whole. My involvement and achievements were always recognised.

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I personally did not need a lot of support in my job, however if I did need it, it was always available.

4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

Varied because of the kind of job I was doing. Generally - stimulating.

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

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

I was given a lot of responsibility which I enjoyed greatly.

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

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

It will definitely help. I was able to establish what kind of work arrangement is best for me, therefore my final year should be easier.

The Organisation

7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

A very good, friendly atmosphere.

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

It was well organised.

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

There were a lot of opportunities available. Some of them I find useful to this day.

10. What were the perks on your work placement?

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

• National Travel
• Company Parties/Events

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

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

I have been within the organisation for over 3 years now (I study here as well) so for me it's probably time to move on. But generally, it is a good organisation to work for.

Other Information

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

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

I didn't get much involved with that, however I believe most placement students organised some socials and get togethers.

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

★★★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 3/10

As the organisation is based in a small town with a high number of students, it is quite expensive here.

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

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

Students Union organise a lot of events.

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

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

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?

Really good opportunity. I am glad I had that job.