Financce - Commodities Oil Product Controller - Industrial Placement Review

I have enjoyed what it has taught me in personal skills rather than the work itself. The work often got repeititive and the hours were unfortunately long in my specific team. Inefficiences meant that I was staying a lot longer than I needed to, and working till 8pm at least became the norm, obstructing most social activities.

My team welcomed me and treated me as an important member. They were easy to talk to, joke around with at times, and we enjoyed ourselves when we went out for drinks.

My manager was often too busy to give me the support and guidance I needed at times. In some ways this taught me independence, but it has been difficult.

Some days I was far too busy, and sometimes I didn't have much to do in set work. There are usually side projects that you can involve yourself in like improving systems. So although there was often something to do, it wasn't always enjoyable.

A good amount of responsibility for an intern level.

I can't emphasise enough the importance of doing an industrial placement. Short summer internships often give a skewed view of what its like to work in a company full time. Industrial placement programs aren't as structured, so you will often find that you have to involve yourself in some projects, and initiate your own learning process. Over time I managed to get insight into most of the team's operations, and have gone through difficult times with them. The placement has taught me how to keep calm under pressure, address people, be mature and professional, be very patient and keep a positive attitude. Therefore, I've enjoyed how it has prepared me for everything.

It was good when people were feeling relaxed, but during month end it can be quiet and serious.

Well set up placement as it has been running for a number of years. Honestly, most of the organisation depends on your manager and team, and mines was far from perfect, so i knocked off a few stars.

They try to prepare you for what its really like to work there. No hiding! So I'd say a lot of personal training is done by simply being on the job. There were a lot of online courses and practical Excel skills that I picked up too.

Fast tracked to the graduate program interview, so they obviously give you a good chance.

Unfortunately my team had it tough, so we didn't have much time for socials. It was really good when we managed to go though.

London is expensive, but I lived at home so no issues personally.

Great bars, albeit a little pricey.

Not for me personally due to long hours, but the company did send out opportunities to get involved in charity work.