Lab assistant Review

I really enjoyed working for Reckitt Benckiser as it has allowed me to develop not only as a working professional but as an individual. I was able to experience working within a laboratory and also within an office based environment getting the best all round experience I could ask for. It was a privilege to provide my expertise and to help RB with its vision of helping people live healthier lives and live in happier homes I do feel as if I have aided towards this vision.

All in all, I did feel valued as a colleague when working for RB. I had regular meetings with my line manager and got on really well with most of my colleagues. However, RB has a hierarchical system which I was not entirely a fan of. In my opinion, some colleagues used this is as a way of talking down to me and pushing tasks onto students without real justification. Even when raised with line managers, little was done to ammend this.

My line manager and closest colleague supervisor were great all year. I had many meetings and was given plenty of advice and mentoring making me a well rounded colleague at Reckitt Benckiser. They were supportive of all my issues and allowed me to communicate my ideas which I valued massively. To anyone who is doing a placement at Reckitt Benckiser, you will always receive excellent support and guidance if you ask for it. Something I believe is highly valued by most placement students.

Very busy most days even through lockdown. There is always something to be getting on with at RB but at the same time it never felt like I had too much to do. It was all fairly easy to manage and the workload was evenly distributed amongst the team. My day to day tasks would include laboratory work and then GMP package writing. During lockdown, work could be completed at home and this was useful as it allowed me to get the most out of my placement.

Reckitt Benckiser provides a very good level of responsibility. From day 1, you're trained up to a very high standard in order to start working within the laboratory. Once trained up, you're expected to complete days to day tasks in the lab by yourself which might seem daunting but becomes routine and is the best way to learn. I found myself feeling very confident with my responsibilities within only a month of working at Reckitr Benckiser. Further to this, you're trusted to work under GMP guidelines which is a difficult take to get used to if you've never worked under the guidelines before.

I feel absolutely ready for anything my degree and future position throws at me. The responsibilities given at RB really push you to be the best version of yourself. I feel much more organised and confident with my workload. I understand clearly the career pathway I want to pursue. This is because I've been given the experience of working in both and office and lab. My speaking skills have also improved allowing me to be more fluent and clear when communicating my ideas. Something I need in both Uni and future careers

It changed on a day to day basis. Some days were more lively than others. I could be in the lab all day one day meaning I would barely speak to any of my colleagues and other days I was in the office all day providing me with an opportunity to get to know my colleagues better. Sometimes the office would be quiet but it depends on the team and how busy everybody is. Overall It was all dependent on the day.

Excellent. Really easy process. Had no complaints about organisation of the placement. From start to end, I was kept up to date with changes and the placement even felt organised during lockdown. Insight days were provided before we began our placement and these were very helpful to give us an understanding of what to expect. Whilst on placement, we had plenty of workshops to develop our skill set. We even had the opportunity to complete a personality test to determine our working style.

They Invested so much into me. All training I required was provided. Over the whole year I felt like I was a valued colleague by the end of it. They made sure I understood my job role and even provided a new science and innovation centre to work in. Something that really benefited my work and development. They provided workshops and allowed us to work in the community on some days in the year. It really added value to the placement.

There is definitely a possibility. They offered a graduate scheme which I may apply for. The skills and training they provide are to a high standard and something I think they would like to recruit back into the company. However I'm not too sure if it is the career I would like to pursue. I have other ideas but it is definitely an option and I could always apply for a direct role instead of through the grad scheme.

A social event was organised every month between students. There was also a corporate party at Christmas. Therefore I would say that there is plenty of social opportunities at Reckitt Benckiser. Many colleagues organised social events as well so there really is something for everyone. Some of the students all loved together so there is that opportunity as well. The good thing about the RB placement is that there are many other students so you don't feel too alone going into it.

Extremely cheap. I lived in the centre of Hull and I've never had such cheap accomodation. The main centre was a 2 minute walk from where I lived so could get to all the main social venues with ease. Also RB was close by which was a perk. All bills were included and I was able to live with my girlfriend in dual occupancy which was great and also helped keep the costs of living down.

Excellent night life. Plenty of pubs and clubs in the area. Food outlets are plenty and there are many main areas in Hull for nightlife and food. The fruit market is good, Attic is the main nightclub and there is also princes avenue for more bars and restaurants. Further to this, there is a volunteering opportunity with the Street Angels which gives a different perspective of a night out. 100% worth it to get some great extra experience.

Yes plenty to get on with including local cycling and running clubs. A badminton club outside of RB as well. Some colleagues also have a board game club. Furthermore, there is a lot of voluntary work for Hull Homeless Community Project and the Street Angels to get on with. The best way is to look on the Hull Facebook page and just get involved and make the most of this amazing area of the UK. CITY OF CULTURE 2017