Insight Student Review

I very much enjoyed the insight week. It provided me with a real feel of what goes on at Savills, particularly in the development sector. Speaking to the people in my team proved very helpful in terms of understanding what each of their roles are within the business. The friendliness of all involved made it all the more enjoyable.

I felt much more valued than I expected. I was used to do certain tasks independently and my opinion was always encouraged. Everybody in my team took the time to ensure I was involved in projects or discussions and I felt as though I was part of the development team.

I was provided with the perfect amount of guidance and support. On new, potentially complicated tasks I was walked through it given clear instruction on how to do it. But on tasks I was able to manage I was left to my own devices which gave me more independence on certain tasks.

The skills I developed and the information I received will definitely assist me in progressing in my degree. At university I learn all the theories but you don't get to see them in a practical environment. During the week I have been able to put these theories into practice and understand them in a working environment.

The structure of the week flowed well. Each morning I was informed of what the day would entail and I would get going on the tasks straight away. I was given flexibility on my lunch hour so I could fully complete a task before taking the time out which helped.

The atmosphere was great, especially in the development department. There was always something going on and group discussions going on about various projects that everyone was involved in. It was a light-hearted approach that mean everyone was smiling and laughing but obviously there was a lot of hard work behind the fun side. It was a perfect balance.

I was given specific guidance by my mentor at all times and they helped with some of the training and development. Other, more senior members of the team would sometimes pop in and give me some information about a specific topic or give me some fundamental knowledge which helped my understand the goings on of the department.

It benefitted massively. Despite joining the team at a time when many projects were already ongoing, it gave me a real taste of the type of things they do in the department. The team allowing me to join in and have some influence on these projects was also very beneficial in terms of understanding the role.

Working in a small team may not have given me the full insight into the culture of the whole company. But from what I saw, I got a good feel for the culture. In my department specifically it was important to be thorough in your work and not cut corners to ensure clients get the most accurate service possible.

It's only the first placement of this type for me and there is such a broad range of options in the property world. So perhaps at this stage, it was not career deciding. But it did offer a good idea of what goes on in this type of team and gives me a comparison for future programmes I'm involved in.

Set to be reimbursed up to £100 for expenses. This included lunch and travel.

Yes, obviously I became acquainted with my team on the first day but being in a big office space gave me the opportunity to meet many others and network with them. I was also invited on a graduates lunch whereby all the former graduates came along and were happy to answer any of my questions regarding Savills or their previous education.

I had one social event which was great. I was with graduates from the office and I was able to talk with them about their experiences and pathways to where they are now.

A few were mentioned in passing comment but not great detail.

Yes I would definitely recommend this insight programme to a friend. It offers a great first look into the working property world and provides key contacts for potential future placements and puts your name on the map. It also enables you to put the theories you learn at university or elsewhere into practice.