Analytical Chemist Review

I really enjoyed my placement year at MSD, everyone in my department was so helpful and welcoming and I feel like I really learnt a lot

Everyone always had time to answer my questions and help me out and I was also included in the social activities of the department

I was given lots of support and guidance

The balance of work wasn't always ideal, but the department went through some big changes whilst I was there which was the main cause of the problem

I was given as much as I asked for, if I wanted more then I was given it, but was never pressured to take on a task I didn't feel like I could do

My practical lab skills have increased immensely, as has my ability to write scientific reports. I also learnt more of the office based skills such as time management, presenting skills and communicating with colleagues

The work was the main priority for everyone in the office which lead to a very focused atmosphere, but it was never dull and people were generally sociable

Very well organised. We had a visit day before beginning the placement in order to have another look around the site, meet other placement students and meet the people in the department again. Our first day involved an induction for all the procedures on site and my department had everything set up for me (computer, phone, desk etc) for when I began my placement.

When training was available I was invited to join in and given as many oppurtunities as the full time staff

I am not currently sure I want a career in the industry in which MSD is based, but this is not a reflection of my placement or the company, rather my personal choices, however if I do want to continue with pharmaceuticals MSD would be one of my first choices, If they would have me back!

Yes, all the placement students were introduced before beginning out placement, so we all connected on social media beforehand and the majority of us lived together in the town near our place of work, We often did social events together, nights out, meals out, bowling, cinema etc and we ate lunch together everyday in the "social room" at work which had a pool table, xbox and darts board My department was also very sociable with the aim of having at least one social event a month including meals out, laser quest and activity night at a dry ski slope.

We were on the commuter belt to London so rent was more expensive than my university town, as was going out, but as we were earning it wasn't too difficult to manage

The next town over had some decent bars and one club but a taxi from the town we lived in was quite expensive, so only not too expensive if there was a a few of you

Yeah there was plenty around, just need to look for it