Commercial Placement Review

I really enjoyed the variety of different tasks that were provided. I felt that a lot of the tasks had a real bearing on the future of the organisation and added value to my teams. I also really enjoyed the fact that I completed two 6 month placements which increased the variety of different tasks and the number of different departments I worked with

A lot of my colleagues valued my 'youthful' outlook on the world, especially with regards to projects that involved the use of technology. Some of my projects were managed by me from the offset; I therefore held key responsibilities for the future of my departments. Overall I felt a very valued member of the team.

I was often left to progress my projects however I felt best, however there were many occasions that different influencers within the organisation would air their opinion and provide key guidance based upon experience. I found this support to be vital in the progression of my project work. Guidance was always available, just ask.

I had a good balance of work and time, I never felt bored in the office yet I never felt that my work load was not manageable. I found a key skill was to set expectations from the outset and keep colleagues up to date with the progress of a project. This allowed me to take on numerous tasks and get involved in many exciting projects. If you ever did feel your workload was not enough, many people are often looking for project support.

I was given a huge amount of responsibility. Everyone in the team was. We were all vital to the success of the organisation! This was a fantastic opportunity that will reflect really well on my CV. I was given responsibilities that I never even imagined, such as managing budgets and the sales performance of departments. I was nervous about the extent of the responsibility at first, but as time goes on I become more comfortable.

I received a very comprehensive on-going training course whilst on placement, this helped me with skills around the office such as how to manage others and set expectations. This was a key focus of my 5000 word dissertation. I am sure that the discipline and time management skills I have learnt will be invaluable when I return to university and progress my career

the office was very sociable with many activities arranged every week. I played football every Monday night with a group from the office. the office in general was very open plan and there were many friendly colleagues always nearby. I would definitely recommend going and talking to colleagues rather than emailing them. Most of the time they will really appreciate this and it shows a committed professional outlook to project work.

I felt it was very well organised. The key dates for my diary were set out from the start of my placement. I was also given a good handover from the previous placement student which outlined what was expected of me in the role. I enjoyed the defined projects and work that had been arranged for me and felt that I was really valued within the organisation

I had many training sessions over my 12 months within the organisation. there was also the option to sign up for training courses in everything from French to Microsoft Excel. I felt that the company had really invested a lot of time and resource into ensuring I was comfortable within my role and able to produce the best results.

I feel the opportunities within the organisation are really positive, My manager has often mentioned how valuable I will be to the future of the organisation. There are such a wide variety of roles within the organisation I feel that I could gain a wide variety of experiences from progressing onto the graduate scheme

yes, the placement students organised regular social events. The business apprentices and graduates were also keen to get involved with sporting and social events. I also found myself socialising with colleagues who have similar interests to me such as the many different sporting events within the area. PSA also offer discounts to many local sporting/music events, a great way to meet new colleagues.

I lived form home and had a company car so I saved a large proportion of my salary. However the price of living in the West Midlands is not extortionate. There are many nearby university's and student style accommodation is available. The cost of socialising is often very low and PSA offer a wide range of discounts to sporting and music events.

I had a few really good nights out in the nearby town of Leamington Spa, which has plenty to offer including many restaurants, bars and night clubs. PSA also put on a really good Christmas party. The graduates tend to arrange some nights out when you begin to introduce everyone, it is well worth getting involved. IF you have any questions it is worth asking the social committee for their latest plans.

yes, there are plenty of sports clubs in the local area. The social committee also offer a wide variety of excursion trips to shopping centres and sporting fixtures. The onsite gym is a great facility and great place to meet new colleagues. you will often find that colleagues who live in the local area can provide insight into the best restaurants and bars.