Business Analyst Review

I was not always given a sufficient amount of work to do in order for me to feel that I was developing my skills properly - however, most of the time I found I had more than enough work to do and I was able to notice my personal growth through the work I was doing.

Each member on the teams on both of my projects was disarmingly friendly and helpful. I never experienced an issue with asking for support or advice, and the atmosphere and energy among team members was extraordinary.

My supervisors on both projects were incredibly helpful, consistently both offering their support as well as simply making themselves available and, more importantly, approachable, so that I always felt that I had their support.

There were many instances where I had very little work to do, thus leading to some rather dull days. However, most days I had a good volume of work to get through, which along with the support of my co-workers was entirely manageable.

While I was not given total responsibility for my own work (e.g. before sending out certain emails or documents I had to send them for review with my supervisor), I held far more responsibility than I had held in previous jobs and than I had expected. While initially this was quite daunting, I soon felt myself slipping into the routine and found myself quickly adapting to my level of responsibility.

I believe that the most important skills I have learned from this job are time management and an improved confidence to ask for advice and help; I have no doubt that these skills will greatly help me when I begin my university studies. As a budding entrepreneur, I expect that many more skills I learned from this placement will assist me in the running of my own business (e.g. Excel skills, presentation skills, stakeholder management, governance, reporting etc.).

The office was generally quite busy, however the teams had created such good atmospheres by the time I joined both projects that even on particularly busy days there was a feeling of camaraderie and positivity that also managed to be very work-focused, culminating in an atmosphere where you are constantly made to feel 'good enough' for any work that might be given to you - perfect for a nervous gap year student!

The placement was well organised, with an extensive and useful training week at the beginning and a handful of socials throughout the duration of the scheme. However, the one thing that could have been improved may be the acquisition of a new role - perhaps I would have been better served had I been given a bit more support while applying for roles. Then again, when I emailed my recruitment specialist I received all the help I needed to acquire a role that fit my rather picky criteria!

The company gave me a vital training week at the start of the scheme; however, I did not receive much training after this week, except for a handful of courses that were company policy to complete. However, many opportunities were made available on the company's intranet site, so I accept that my lack of training is primarily due to my unwillingness to subscribe to new courses.

If I did not already have a business plan for post-university, I would be doing everything in my power to obtain a future job. Salaries are great, role diversity is huge, company perk are a bonus and in general it is a unique company to work for.

On many occasions the team would go out for what was intended to be a weekly social. Whether dinner, drinks, or bowling, my colleagues were keen to build their relationships outside of work as well as in the office. Fellow placement studies, subject to availability, were also keen to go out frequently, however budget and time were significant limiting factors in this!

When working in London, living/socialising costs are pretty high, as to be expected. However, during my time in Newcastle I was pleasantly surprised at the cheap cost of transport, social events and general shopping. I was able to purchase 3 days worth of food (3 meals a day) for under £20 regularly

No fault here, except the price of a night out in London. Otherwise, both London and Newcastle have fantastic nightlife, with something for everyone and the promise of a good night around every corner.

Besides sports teams, I can't remember being told of many activities outside of work that I could get involved in. The exception would be that while in Newcastle I did receive several messages informing me of volunteering opportunities in the local area - however, many of these were during either work hours or weekends, both of which I would have been unable to attend.