Trainee Quantity Surveyor Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my time working on the Thames Tideway Project. Being given a chance to work on a project that will make a meaningful contribution to improving the quality of the environment, not only the whole of London but the entire UK, is exactly why I wanted to work for Laing O'Rourke.

I felt quite welcome by all of my colleagues on the project. There were lots of individuals, who even though I did not directly work with, still took the time out of their busy schedules to help me settle in and make me feel welcome. I felt there was always a friendly atmosphere within the company no matter who you were interacting with.

I was extremely lucky in regards to being matched up with the supervisors I had. My supervisor frequently made time to check up on me and address any queries I had, despite his very busy workload. He would sit down with me and patiently go over any of the technical aspects of the job I did not fully understand, helping and encouraging me to strive for my best.

On a day to do day basis, there was usually something for me to do. Whether the work was provided by my supervisor or by another colleague I was not short on work during my time on the project. I was usually given work that a graduate student would complete so I never felt out of my depth or overworked.

Due to the very technical nature of the project that I worked on and considering the technical expertise of the colleagues I worked alongside with, I would say that I was given a fair amount of responsibility during my placement. I felt I made a good contribution to the project especially considering the fact I was only a second year student.

The training I received whilst working on the project will directly assist me in working when I eventually obtain a job after University. I was fortunate enough to be placed on various training programmes, some of which I received qualifications from industry recognized institutions. This investment into its undergraduate workers is what I believe sets Laing O'Rourke apart from other main contractors.

The general atmosphere of the office I worked in was great as there was a good mix of fun and professionalism at all times. A friendly ambiance was felt between all the individuals present in the office, regardless of their age gender or job. This made it an enjoyable place to work in no matter if it was a Monday morning or a Friday afternoon!

My internship was very well organized by the Early talent team, I felt that the overall set up was very well suited for me and my individual needs. The Early Talent Team was able to organize my placement around my availability, so that meant I did not have to miss any time off due to family holidays and could fully benefit from the whole six-week placement.

I am extremely grateful for all the training and development that the company invested in me. There were several days where I was sent offsite to undergo specific training which was not only relevant to the project that I worked on at the time but I believe will also be beneficial to me no matter what project I work on in the future.

Future employment prospects within the Laing O'Rourke organization are amongst the most appealing within the industry.

A lot of my colleagues would regularly get together after work and there was a very friendly ambiance between those that did.

As I was working directly in the city of London I was fortunate enough to be provided with a travel subsidy, this meant that a large amount of my travel was paid for by the company, something which was extremely helpful considering how expensive travel is in London, especially at peak times.

I am unsure of how the nightlife in the area I worked in was.

Due to the closeness of my Colleagues within the workplace, there was frequently activities that I could get engaged in too. These ranged from lunches to football matches to even office games ran by the individuals. All of which my colleagues would frequently go out of their to invite me too, helping to ensure that I felt naturally welcomed and a part of the team.