Business Undergraduate Review

One of the best years of my life. The work is challenging but support is always on hand if you are unsure of what is required. Opportunities to travel to various other sites where the company operates (potentially abroad if lucky enough). Colleagues all open and friendly towards undergraduates and company has a thriving social atmosphere for apprentices and university students.

Easy to make friends both with other undergraduates as well as work colleagues. You are valued as an asset to the team and the more you show interest the more trust and responsibility you receive.

Support readily available everyday from either colleagues, managers, peers but especially the HR department and placement officers.

A myriad of tasks at different times throughout the year meant that it was never dull. Most of the tasks were interesting and a challenge offering an opportunity to utilize University based knowledge and to hone new skills.

Many of the tasks presented to me were solely my responsibility and as such gave me the chance to really experience the pressures of the working world. Of course, as always guidance and assistance was on hand if necessary but I enjoyed the chance to work independently and show what I was personally capable of achieving.

Transfer of practical skills to University teaching and vice-versa is invaluable. It puts theory into practice as well as bringing forward new ideas and skills that are essential for future employment.

As my placement was spread across 2 departments throughout the year, I was lucky enough to be able to settle into my working environments and create friendships with colleagues. Most were chatty and up for a laugh and was easy to strike up conversations but also remain professional.

From day 1 in both departments, a list of tasks and schedule of when the needed to be carried out was devised so I was instantly aware of my role and responsibilities. As is the nature of business however, sometimes these plans changed which meant I missed out on involvement within a few tasks but it was good to have this flexibility.

Throughout the year, several presentations and workshops were held for just the undergraduates to further understand the company. Furthermore, we were presented with a number of group projects and opportunities to work as a team allowing us to personally develop further skills.

The company is multinational and offers a very competitive and comprehensive post-graduate scheme with many opportunities and perks with a thriving social appeal also.

AWASA (AgustaWestland Apprentice and Students Association) is an organisation run by the students. They organize regular events ranging from charity walks, nights out, paintball and sports events to name just a few. There are several other organisations within the company that also arrange similar activities.

Personally, I was within driving distance from my parents home so therefore opted to live with them for the year and pay lower rent and fuel as my expenses. However, based upon what my friends and colleagues paid for there flats the average price is very reasonable (no more than you would pay for accommodation at Uni) and the room sizes are ample. Social wise, there are several activities within Yeovil such as bowling, cinema, gyms and even a few nightclubs most of which offer discounts for students and occasionally if you are a Westlands employee.

Yeovil is not a major city compared to some, therefore, do not expect a University town. However, there are several nightclubs and events that are held at venues regularly. It is worth making the most of it but do not expect Uni night life or prices for drinks.

Plenty. If you make the effort to involve yourself within the organisations the company offers or mix in with fellow undergraduates there are loads of activities to get involved in or to organize yourself.