Assistant Design Manager Review

It was a very enjoyable experience offering an invaluable insight into the workings of the construction industry, which could not be taught at university

I felt a valued member of my project team and was not treated differently because I was a placement student - most people were often unaware of this anyway.

Support was offered whenever required however you should expect to be in charge of yourself and seek out support when you need it rather than expect it to come to you.

For the first half of my placement I was variably busy but there would be days when I had little to do (however this was to do with project aspects and that it was office based for this period). Into the second half (as the project moved on site) and especially towards the end of the placement I became increasingly busy until a point where I was very busy every day.

Responsibility increased over time as I was able to prove myself willing and able to take on more tasks - I eventually had responsibility for several client facing and important elements of the projects. However do not expect to be handed single responsibility for a work package etc.

All of the knowledge and skills I learnt/developed on placement will definitely be used in my future studies and my future career roles.

The project office was a somewhat relaxed atmosphere - however it was not a stressful place to be. The site office was more relaxed and enjoyable to work in. Both locations felt professional - your project team members and yourself will make the atmosphere what it is though.

You will have support and infrequent communication with the HR placement/graduate team however when allocated to your business unit/project there is not necessarily a structure in place, you will be given a role to fulfil the requirements of the project as necessary.

I had many opportunities to undertake training sessions - including First Aid at Work. If you are willing then the company will be keen to invest in you and your future at Mace.

Very good - you will most likely be offered a place on the graduate scheme if you do well on the placement year. Be sure that your business unit (company is split into residential, technology etc.) you work in is right for you though as they will be keen for you to return. Going through the placement/graduate route looks good in the board of directors' eyes and you could expect to move up the company relatively quickly.

Even though we were all on different projects in different locations, our cohort of placement students often met for drinks/nights out and even climbed a mountain together to raise money for the company charity. Mace plans to take on more and more placement students so you can expect these opportunities to continue.

In London it was understandably very expensive (try to find the best financial balance you can). If you are lucky to be allocated to the International Contracting business unit as I was, you will have the chance to commute to or relocate to the countries the business unit is currently working in.

London nightlife is fantastic even if you don't have a lot of money to spend - just find the right places!

Mace encourages charity and volunteering work and even offers leave days to allow you to undertake these activities.