This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.
I greatly enjoyed working at lubrizol, superior staff members where helpful and structures where in place to ensure student placements ran smoothly.
Student work at lubrizol is highly valued and at all times I felt as if my work received the validity it deserved.
Support structures in place at lubrizol and also by my university meant I always felt safe and confident in the tasks I was given.
I felt that for me the balance was about right with tasks taking up the full day, with just enough time for a couple tea breaks.
Tasks that I was given during my placement where definetly my own but due to the safety requirements needed in a laboratory environment it is a good thing to have a senior member of staff involved in some tasks.
Whilst at lubrizol I would say my laboratory skills improved massively whilst also gaining an insight into how an industrial position in chemistry would suit me. Also teamwork, communication and presentation skills gained can not go unmentioned.
I shared an office with other placement students so as we where all in the same situation it made easy to get along. We all knew hard work was needed but it doesn't mean you can't have a joke at the same time. From time spent in other senior offices I gained a similar impression from them.
Overall well organised, but a hectic first few days getting things set up and working smoothly.
The majority of non-essential extra training and development gained was safety orientated. Maybe training in different areas could be developed.
Subsidised Canteen
Sports and Social Club
Financial Bonus
Company Parties/Events
With a history of employing past students and due to the satisfaction I gained from my placement I would say a job at Lubrizol would be appealing.
With around 15-20 placement students scattered in different departments on site there is always something going on. I was also glad to find that younger full time staff members where usually happy to attend social events organised.
I chose to travel into work from living in Nottingham so this doesn't really apply to me but as I understand prices where pretty okay.
The closest place for a nightlife in Derby, it's not the clubbing central of the world but has enough bars and clubs to have a good time.
A sports an social club ran quite a number of activities from hill walking to go-karting so there where no issues there.
Placement Year (10 Months+)
Chemistry, Science/Research
21st September 2012