QA Engineer Review

I really enjoyed my placement here. I found that every day was a new challenge and an opportunity to learn something new, and widen my skill set. You are not left alone when facing these challenges however, as everyone is able and willing to help you.

Once I had become confident in my abilities, the majority of the testing workload in my team was placed on me. I really felt trusted and realised my value to the team.

My supervisor [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyPlacement Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions] was incredible in settling us interns in and maintaining an open dialogue about how we were doing in the placement. This was really helpful as knowing how others feel about your work can be reassuring.

Being spread across multiple teams meant that there was always important work to be done. And if for some reason there was no work on my plate, all I had to do was to ask any of my bosses for some.

After I had gained confidence in my abilities to test the software, the majority of the testing workload was placed on me. This really made me feel trusted.

After having worked at Mentor Graphics, I feel as if I have gained so much. I am more confident in presenting my work to others, and being open to criticism. I have drastically improved my work ethic. I have also been prepared for working life after university.

In general, most people are sat down doing their work. If anyone needs help from anyone all it takes is a simple instant message or to walk over to their desk. Regular breaks are encouraged, so you aren't sat down all day. The break room is full of tea, coffee, and snacks. People tend to all go to lunch together, which is nice. If you prefer to work with music or a podcast playing that is welcome, you are not forced to work a certain way.

Mentor Graphics have been doing their placement scheme for 8 years now. They are very organised and know what to expect from interns each year. They know that the first 3 months or so are a steep learning curve, but there is more than enough guidance to help you progress in that stage. There were training courses that were incredibly well planned, and a trip to the Towcester office was rather nice.

A training course on 4 different softwares, including a full day on the one you will work on. Also a personality in the workplace training course.

They have hired interns back after university before. One of them is in my office, another in Hampton Court. Having a years experience could definitely put you ahead of other candidates for a place here. Also, with Mentor being a Siemens owned business, there could be an opportunity to work for them in the future.

Yes, the other interns and I have done lots of stuff together, plus the office tend to go out for lunch together to a pub/restaurant on big occasions.

The rent in Nottingham is incredibly good. The property you get for your money is unmatched in the South. Plus the public transport if you dont drive is not too expensive and is very well invested in by the council. Most places are just a short tram away or walk away fro the town centre which like most big cities is thriving.

In Nottingham there are several highly rated night clubs like Rock City, Stealth, Rescue rooms to name a few. As for pubs there's one on every road basically.

The personality training course is a fun one to go to. Also there are a few people in work who are up for going out.