AstraZeneca Work Experience Review

I really enjoyed my time at AstraZeneca. It was exciting to see how the company operates and more generally what a working day is like. I loved the range of activities I was able to get involved with and as a result found out about many different job roles.

The company ensured everyone felt relaxed and valued from the beginning, we were spoken to like adults so the environment wasn't typical of being at school - this added to the 'workplace' experience. All of the staff I spoke to were friendly and passionate about their jobs.

From being supported with practical activities to guided tours of the site, I felt I could always ask for help and support in whatever activities we were doing. The insight leaders were not only supportive but gave us the right amount of challenge, such as helping us to make and perform our own presentations and giving us interview advice.

I believe my confidence massively improved thanks to this work experience, I was originally scared to meet a lot of new people at once in another part of the country but the experience was positive and rewarding. The interview guidance I was given recently came in helpful when attending my Oxford interview, of which I was successful.

The insight was very well structured, I liked having something different to do everyday. In the short time I was there the team leaders managed to fit a lot of activities in, so I felt there was no time wasted.

There was a brilliant atmosphere during this work experience, I felt the team leaders were really passionate about their jobs and about providing a good experience for all of us. Every day was exciting and fulfilling, it felt as though we were all learning together.

The company allowed us access to many areas of the site, from the animal testing facilities to the protein labs, I felt very lucky to have access to such amazing people and facilities.

The experience gave me an insight into not just the job role, but also the social aspects and privileges that come with the job. I enjoyed learning about the various different jobs as well as the typical working day.

I gained a very good understanding of the company culture.

The content was very valuable, especially for realizing my love of Biochemistry and I have since applied for a Biochemistry degree. It was especially helpful being able to talk about the experience at interviews and in my personal statement.

I don't feel as though I should have been paid or reimbursed any expenses.

I was able to meet many different employees and people in different job roles.

We did not overly network as most of us were under 18.

Yes, a wide range of activities.

I would definitely recommend this insight to a friend, even if they aren't sure on their career path.