Human Resources, Maritime Submarines Summer Internship

As a student at the University of Leeds where I study Sociology, I wanted to do a placement in Human Resources because the skill set required for a career in this area seems to match the skills and interests I have developed throughout my academic studies. I have always had an interest in people and I was keen to gain some workplace experience in this area.

BAE Systems seemed like a great company to work for. They offer a range of roles, career progression, a friendly working environment and they have a great reputation, not just nationally but globally.

I felt as though I was given a lot of responsibility straight away. I like to be busy, learn new skills and take on new challenges; I knew this placement was right for me almost straight away.

I was allocated three different projects during the 12-week scheme and particularly found it interesting working with the resourcing team to recruit for specific roles in the company. This involved organising assessment centres and planning a large scale recruitment event involving various functions across the company.

I really enjoyed going to a local college to help out with their educational summer school. Other aspects of my placement included visiting a venue prior to a recruitment event to plan ahead for the day and supporting the general jobs within the office such as liaising with other employees and external companies to organise assessment centre timetables.

In HR you interact with people spanning the whole business, from engineers, to the operations team, to site security. As part of my role I have been required to call or visit other businesses that work alongside BAE Systems, such as venues for events or assessment centres in the local area.