Student Design Engineer Review

From the outset, I was given a lot of responsibility so I was able to get really involved with high profile projects straightaway, which made you feel you were making a valid contribution to the company. Also, all of my colleagues really helped me to settle in.

Everyone was really friendly and helpful from the start. We had some social events outside of work so I got to know people from different departments. Since leaving the placement, I still keep in contact with a number of colleagues and would love to go back to work with them.

My supervisor was always there if I needed to ask a question, and all of my colleagues provided support too. Even the Directors were available to speak to, which made you feel part of the company.

I always had projects to work on, sometimes more than one so I was able to time manage myself. Things got busier towards project deadlines but support was always there if needed.

I was given full responsibility for my work from day one - my work was checked by other colleagues as everyone else's is checked for projects and I was always able to ask for advice if necessary.

I have learnt to organise myself better, especially considering time management, and I have always built up my knowledge for my Civil Engineering Degree. I spent a lot of time designing, using Eurocodes, checking my designs with calculations and also drawing up the designs on CAD. It was a great experience and I would definitely recommend a placement with Atkins to anyone!

The office was always very friendly and I was able to get to know my colleagues as friends too and have kept in contact with a number of them.

Overall, it was organised well and I always had work, and in times when I was running low on work, I was able to go and ask other colleagues if they needed help. I also got the opportunity to teach 3 other placement and work experience students how to design foundations using a spreadsheet I had designed to Eurocode.

There always seemed to be a chance to further your knowledge and there was a close-knit support network for everyone.

I think it would be a great place to work in - just looking forward to going back and getting some site experience!

We had a few social events, including a staff BBQ, leaving party for a colleague and leaving meal for the placement students, so you always felt welcome and involved!

Manchester was the nearest city, which usually has good deals for students, including restaurants, bars and clubs. Living costs are reasonable, obviously the closer you are to Manchester or Liverpool the more expensive it was.

Manchester always has something going on throughout the week and there's a lot of variety.

I joined the gym opposite the office and there are numerous classes and clubs available locally.