Mechanical Engineering Vacation Student Review

I truly enjoyed my placement at Arup as I had the opportunity to contribute to multiple projects and experience the Arup working culture - everyone was friendly and always willing to help. I appreciated that I had the chance to attend meetings related to the projects and also attend a site visit.

I felt valued by colleagues as I was always given background information to the tasks I was assigned and always offered help when I needed it. Also, I was often invited to work socials which allowed me to also get to know people I was not working on the same projects with.

All management and supervisors always found the time to help when I needed it, even during the busiest times. Everyone took the time to explain topics in-depth and cared about my understanding of the subject. In general, the friendly environment allowed to feel comfortable every time I need further explanations on my tasks or needed help with the various software I needed to use.

For most of my summer placement, I had projects I was working on and tasks to complete. The work available was dependent on the projects my team was working on and their stages and therefore, at times there were no appropriate tasks for me to complete. However, during these times my supervisor was always willing to help me find other projects I could work on.

I have been given a fair amount of responsibility by being able to contribute to various calculations and designs which were then used to develop the projects. In addition, I had the opportunity to attend meetings and contribute to them by sharing my ideas. During my placement, I also got the chance to contribute to the presentations that were then shown to the client of the project.

My time at Arup allowed me to work on my communication skills and time management skills. Furthermore, I developed more initiative by always trying to find more I could contribute to the tasks I was assigned but also by offering my help to other engineers during times I did not have tasks to complete. In addition, I improved my AutoCAD and Excel skills.

Everyone in the office was friendly and always willing to help. The atmosphere, in general, was very inclusive. Everyone was invited to after-work drinks and this was a good opportunity to meet people in my team.

The placement was well organised. All interns received a brief about the company and training on the first day. I was also made aware of the people to ask in case I needed help.

During my first few days, my supervisor made me aware of all of the available online training and guides. This allowed me to gain a better understanding of the tasks I was assigned. Also, there were several talks and courses available during lunch and after work which everyone could attend.

I enjoyed working at Arup and the projects I was involved in and therefore, I would definitely consider applying for a graduate role.

I attended several after-work drinks and lunches with other placement students. Also, I attended the Arup Summer Party where I had the chance to talk to colleagues, not in my team.

I lived with my parents during my placement and therefore, the cost of living was zero for me. Drinks and food places were not too expensive and many options were available.

The Nightlife was really good, as there were many different places you could go to.

Cycling and football activities were organised.