Dosimetry Undergraduate Review

I have thoroughly enjoyed my year at BAT. As well as being able to develop technical skills and theoretical knowledge, we were provided with many opportunities to improve personal abilities applicable across all industries including interpersonal skills, presenting and confidence.

Students at BAT are highly valued and this is clear from the opportunities and benefits provided to them. I immediately felt a part of the team I was working in and given my own responsibilities and trusted to carry them out individually.

My line manager was very supportive through the year, not only with work but with outside of work issues also. They made sure I was working to the best of my ability, fully understanding all of the work topics and setting tasks to improve my personal goals for the years, namely improving my confidence and communication skills. They also went out of their way to organise extra activities where I could explore other areas of the company and learn about other instruments.

I was kept busy for the majority of the year with my individual project with planning, training on relevant equipment, carrying out the experimental, data analysis and writing the final report. However I also helped out with other projects and spent time broadening my knowledge, there was always something to keep me busy!

I was responsible for the planning and organisation of my own project and was able to carry out laboratory work and operate instruments individually without supervision.

This year has taught me that University is very different from working in industry. I have had training in presentations skills, statistical analysis, developed literature searching and report writing skills, learned the theory and operation of widely used instrumentation and analytical techniques and practiced effective organisation and communication. All of these skills will be valuable for my final year of university and any career I choose to follow.

The offices are very open plan with a friendly atmosphere. Everyone is very approachable and willing to answer any questions.

They organise a visit berfore the start of the placement to meet the current students, the main people they will be working with and organise housing arrangements. Projects are often chosen before they arrive and meetings are set up with individuals as an introduction to everyone.

It is clear that BAT values it's students, providing opportunities for courses and exploring different departments and instrumentation.

I would definitely come back to the company in the future!

There were eight other students at the company and we often met up out of work to do activities such as paintballing. Collegues were also very social with team and department meals and trips to the pub after work.

Accommodation was average in terms of cost and for socialising there were a range of options. Buses in the area are very good and value for money.

There were several different locations with a range of options from pubs to clubs catering for a range of music tastes.

There were several sports clubs and tickets for social events available through the company.