Undergraduate European Regulatory Strategist Review

My placement year has been both challenging and enjoyable, and the company cultures and values are very reflective of the opportunities Pfizer provide. Outside of project work you are encouraged to engage with volunteer schemes, training schemes and socials. The year was well structured, and my personal development was put at the forefront to benefit me for my return to university.

I felt valued by colleagues within my team and was made to feel very welcome within the first few weeks of arrival. I was also able to work with colleagues outside my team who valued and appreciated my assistance. As part of a large undergrad cohort we also appreciated the support we provided each other.

I was given a lot of support and mentorship by my supervisor. We had weekly catch-up meetings to discuss the work I was doing and if I had any questions that had arisen. I also felt as though I could go to my manager, or others within the department, if I had any problems or concerns.

Generally, I always had project work to be doing, however, due to the nature of the work, there could be periods which were quieter than others. Although, this allowed me to get involved in other schemes and projects. Shadowing other colleagues for your continual learning is encouraged, and I also become involved in some key regulatory learning forums.

I was given a good level of responsibility, which progressed throughout the year. I was able to present in learning forums and actively engage in meetings which pushed me out of my comfort zone. The work I was given was mostly support work, although I was also given tasks that I had primary ownership over.

The skills and training you receive on this placement year will be carried through and beyond your career! The uniqueness of being a undergraduate colleague allows you to explore your skill development and learning potential more than if you went straight into employment after your degree. My confidence, organisation and presentation skills, to name a few, are skills which I am looking forward to using on my return to University.

The atmosphere was positive and friendly within the office, and colleagues were always happy to help or go for a coffee! Within my department, the atmosphere was generally quieter than most due to a lot of colleagues working remotely. Overall however, there are plenty of opportunities to meet other colleagues by joining the on-site gym or other clubs.

The placement was generally well structured. We had an initial 2 weeks of on-boarding, where we were offered training sessions and introductory talks. Throughout the year, we have had specific department talks from colleagues to further our training and learning. The placement year structure does have a few areas for improvement, however at the end of the year they ask you for feedback to improve on the following year.

You can tell as soon as you start your year, that they care about your personal training and development. You are given numerous opportunities to partake in training and other schemes. For example, I was able to gain my Six Sigma Yellow Belt, an externally recognised qualification. You are also encouraged to visit different Pfizer sites and shadow colleagues in different fields of work.

I would be very interested in returning to the company in the future, and hope to do so. However, the opportunities for entry level/graduate positions is very limited, so the prospects would be more suited to those with a few years experience. Additionally, one of the few ways into the company as a graduate is through the placement scheme, so I would recommend it to those hoping to pursue a career with Pfizer after their degree.

There was a great social scene amongst fellow placement students. There is a large cohort of students which brings that university aspect through to your placement year. We regularly had nights out and other socials, which was a great way to get settled in. There was a really positive atmosphere amongst students which was one of the highlights of the year!

The cost of living is quite high in the area, although I lived at home, so for me the living costs were at a minimum! The cost of socialising is more than most experience at Uni, but it wasn't a limiting factor.

There was limited nightlife around the local areas, mostly just good pubs for afterwork drinks. However, we were only a train ride away from London, which provided a more lively night out.

There was a nice amount of opportunities to get involved with outside of work. I got involved with the gym and run club on site, which were really enjoyable aspects to the year. You were also given the opportunity to take 5 days volunteering; we took 2 of these days as an undergrad group, which was a great way to bond as a team.