This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.
Rating
-
The Role
-
The Company
-
The Culture
- 1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?
- 2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?
- 3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?
- 4. How busy were you on a daily basis?
- 5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?
- 6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?
- 7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?
- 8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?
- 9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?
- 10. What were the perks on your work placement?
- 11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?
- 12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?
- 13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?
- 14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?
- 15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?
The Role
Great variety of work, in a diverse environment. Encouraged daily to give your own spin on the work you're conducting.
Very much an open and friendly environment. Our team take great care of each other.
Supervisor was exceptional, and management were always there if needed. Great support in both personal and work affairs.
It could vary massively from day to day, but good time keeping will keep your workload managable and evenly spaced. Depends on the how far up-stream/down-stream your work is.
Within my own project, I had sole responsibility, but supervisor and direct management would check up/advise.
Massive help in all non-accademic related skills, and general science but limited help with pure Chemistry (not unexpected though). Time keeping, communication and work ethic have all been helped and improved so far.
The Company
Relatively small site/team at prime location, so atmosphere isn't as vibrant. But when working at the alternate sites, it's much more vibrant and there's more going on.
Exceptionally well organised, with tons of support networks in place.
Great opportunities to develop as an employee. Some opportunities to go on more advanced training courses such as; statistical modelling.
Flexi Time
Subsidised/Company Gym
National Travel
Company Parties/Events
Staff Sales/Staff Shop
Working from home
Reviews throughout the year, during the final review you're told you either have/haven't recieved a Hire recommendation. So long as the company is recruiting there's a chance of getting a job. Lots of the 'younger employees' are ex-interns.
The Culture
Varies from site to site, generally dependant on the size of the student community. When we do get together as interns from multiple sites, it makes up for it.
Very close to London, so prices are relatively high. Rent = £415 pcm for a medium sized double room. Drink and meal prices aren't too bad though.
Egham is a relatively sleepy town, depsite being the home of the University of Royal Holloway. Student union only excepts 'plus ones' so unless you've befriended someone at the university, it's normally difficult to go to student nights. Alternatively travel to Windsor offers a fair/varied night life. Close to London though (30 minutes train).
'Free time' is a company operated club for employees, variety of activities such as football, yoga, pilates, badminton etc. Encouraged to set up your own club if necessary.
Details
Placement (10 Months+)
Business Operations, Chemistry, Science
London
January 2014