Machinery Industrial Placment Review

I really enjoyed my placement. I felt valued and have learnt a lot. I have been able to build on both my technical skills but also my personal skills. I was made to completely feel part of the team and was not made to feel like the "intern" which I really appreciated

I felt really valued by my colleagues. They were always willing to help and answer any questions I had. I could turn to them about anything and they never made me feel unwelcome. I felt valued as I was included in trips to vendors or site which was a great way to learn.

I was given great support by my manager. She was always willing to answer any questions or issues I had. I however felt I could approach anyone in the department for support and guidance. I found my supervisor struggled providing feedback sometimes but when I approached them about this they improved this.

I had some very busy days but some days were quieter. I quickly realised people are busy and using your own initiative was greatly welcomed and led to a lot of opportunities for myself. I enjoyed the balance between busy and quiet day as I was able to catch up on tasks on quiet days.

I was given a lot of responsibility. I was able to complete multiple site visits and provide technical support. I also was involved in writing inspection reports. I was the meeting lead for project meetings liaising between commercial and technical staff. I was also responsible for the department intranet. I worked with the corporate communication team on the 60th anniversary communications including a history book.

I feel my year will assist in my degree as I have gained a lot of communication skills. I have developed my confidence. My technical knowledge has greatly improved and I am now more experience with equipment and the steps involved in the buying and testing of the equipment. I have also applied for EngTech which is a recognition of the skills I have gained.

The general atmosphere in the office was great. People regularly brought in cake and snacks to celebrate occasions. People were also willing to help and discuss anything you needed. I felt the business and noise of the office was perfect to maintain focus but also defeat loneliness and the feeling of isolation

The year placement was really well organised. All of the items I required were easily accessed or set up for me prior to my arrival. The HR staff were really helpful and kept in touch throughout the placement to check for any issues. A buddy was assigned to the students so they could raise any issues they did not want to talk to their department about.

I am really interested in a future job with the company. The varied placements available really makes it interesting as you are able to gain experience in a lot of engineering departments and disciplines. I hope to be offered a graduate role in the company as I have really enjoyed my year there.

There was a great social scene between the students and graduates . We had many socials including a treasure hunt in central London, pub quiz, bowling, picnics, and a lot more. I also organised to go to parkrun in a royal park with one of the other students which I really enjoyed.

The cost of living is higher than average. However sites like spareroom have an abundance of cheaper accommodation depending on where you want to live. The cost of socialising was quite high. I really enjoyed central London being 25 minutes away and only a £6 train ticket with a railcard as this allowed for fun socialisation.

The nightlife in the area I worked was not brilliant. The location I was based in is a small town with a few pubs and a cinema. However there is a nightclub 10 minutes on the train away. Central London is also only 25 minutes on the train if you fancy a London night out