Placement Year Review at MBDA

The Role

Role Description

Testing a novel piece of technology, to determine it's suitability for further investment and development.

Had to conduct studies into the ability of the device to conduct certain tasks, as well as create concepts for future use.

Was also exposed to many areas of the business, both on site and off.

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Very nice place to work. Great people, facilities and work/life balance.

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

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

Everyone is very welcoming. Many people went out of their way to give tours of their business areas and this was much appreciated.

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

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

I was working on a one-to-one basis with my manager, so had great access to his help and expertise.

4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

Working in a large company merans that you often have to wait for other people to complete things before you can continue. Times like these can often be used to research other areas or parts of the company.

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

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

I was the only person working on the novel technology. This was a big responsibility but I was grateful for it.

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

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

A lot of skills developed during university are put to good work here. This applies especially in applying good experimental technique, presentation skills and clear report writing.

The Organisation

7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

I was in quite a quiet office. It's a relaxed atmosphere however.

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

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

I was always well communicated with about dates and what I needed to do.

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

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

There wasn't much scope for individual training courses, mainly due to the short length of the placement. However, I feel that it is a good investment by the company to bring in students and let them do real work.

10. What were the perks on your work placement?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

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

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

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

I have been offered a job here next year, so excellent prospects!

Other Information

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

There is a strong graduate community here. There's weekly football mathces and nights out.

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

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

I managed to find a very cheap place to live in Stevenage. My advice is to look early and find private landlords.

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

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

Can't comment on Stevenage as I never really went out here. London is nearby too of course.

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

There are plenty of external teams, covering loads of different sports. I played football each week with the graduates, but there are shooting, fishing, cricket, rugby teams etc.

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?

It's a very worthwhile experience. Good money and looks great on your CV!

Review 18/67 for MBDA

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