Gap Year Student Review

I was responsible for assisting Project Engineers within the team. Day-to-day I would be producing technical drawings. Undertaking feasibility studies and writing their respective reports. Participating in frequent site visits. Building relationships with clients and other departments within the company. Understanding the consultancies systems and processes. Monitoring schemes. Liaising with contractors and partners of the business. Producing 'Bill of Quantities' for schemes (pricing work) ... and so much more!

You're always learning, literally new things every day. Computer aided design skills have developed (faster ways of doing things). Technical knowledge is constantly building through experience and seeing the construction process on site. Written and communication skills improved. The importance of organisation. A real understanding of the industry was gained. How to price schemes. But the greatest thing I gained was more confidence!

Yes! From day one, I was given real projects to work on from inception until final handover of the designs. At the beginning it did feel a bit overwhelming however, my mentors were always by my side willing to help and push me through in which, that initial feeling soon faded. Within my placement year I had a big involvement with a high-profile scheme in Nottingham which later would aid me winning an industry award.

I had an assigned mentor who I worked very closely with throughout my placement but, it didn't take long until I realised that the whole team, were my mentors. Everybody wanted to help and were always willing to take the time out. I can't praise them enough. One of my biggest worries before starting was that people wouldn't have time for me, which looking back was such a silly worry!

Hard working, the delivery of high-quality services to clients was crucial but at the same time, you feel valued for the hard work, and it is acknowledged. The general atmosphere in the office I worked in was down to earth. I can honestly say that everyone is approachable and friendly. People genuinely care and I never felt like a number.

I never woke up and didn't want to go to work and would happily commute 2 hours just to get into work (total time spent commuting/day was 4 hours).

Yes

Do it! You must be willing to learn, ask lots of questions ... there's no such thing as a stupid question at Via. Have a positive attitude and be friendly. Never be afraid to say you don't know something, people don't expect you to know everything and it's ok to not get something right away, they'll a find way to explain things in a way that you understand. Also, be motivated!