Internship Review at Rise (DAAD)

The Role

Role Description

I was working in an organic chemistry laboratory. My main duty was working with my supervisor to synthesise organic compounds. I had my own fume cupboard and could carry out the necessary reactions (including extractions, purifications) and analysis.

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

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Although the work was hard I felt that the work was somewhat satisfying and definitely provided me with valuable research experience.

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I worked closely with my supervisor, and my work was valuable to the whole university group.

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

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

Because it would be dangerous to let me loose in the lab on my own, I was given all the support and guidance that I needed.

4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Although there were times when I was waiting a while for a reaction to complete or for a spectral analysis to be ready, there was always something that I could be doing if I wanted.

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

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

Once I got the hang of working in a lab I was handed more responsibility, however, especially at first, I was given only a little responsibility, which I was very glad about because it was difficult for me to get used to the lab at first.

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 learnt so much about working in an organic chemistry lab. I did not realise how much of a beginner I was before I went on the internship. Now that I have finished, I feel a lot more competent and if I were to continue as a research scientist then the skills I learnt will be valuable for my whole career.

The Organisation

7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

People did work very hard, but there was a general friendly atmosphere nonetheless.

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Applying was very easy and the DAAD (german academic exchange service) were quite quick at processing and getting information to us asap.

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

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

My supervisor worked very closely to me to develop my skills in the lab.

10. What were the perks on your work placement?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

• Company Parties/Events

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

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

They said they would be very happy to have me back if I wanted to .

Other Information

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

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Yes, there were a lot of international students which was very good for me because I didnt speak any German

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

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

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

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

Aachen is quite a small city but there were still a good selection of bars, clubs and places to eat

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

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Travelling at the weekends was easy as my supervisor regularly let me have time off. There were lots of lab group social events and the DAAD gave everyone on the scheme a paid weekend in Heidelberg which was amazing.

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 DAAD RISE scheme is exceptional. It allows you to work in Germany for up to 3 months in the summer. You learn so much about the culture by working and travelling throughout the country. You make so many new friends because of the international approach of the universities where you work and because the meet up in Heidelberg with the other 300 people on the scheme is fantastic. If you are thinking about a career in research, or if you want to be paid to go abroad to work and travel, then I would highly recommend applying.

Review 2/2 for Rise (DAAD)

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