Industrial Trainee Review

I really enjoyed my placement as I felt I had the opportunity to experience so many new things.

The value I felt varied depending on the different tasks and responsibilities I was given. I felt particularly valued leading up to big deadlines where I could really help the team. However sometimes I didn't feel very valuable as some tasks didn't necessary add value to the team.

I was given a huge amount of support by my supervisors and management. They were always there to answer any questions I needed and were really good teachers.

This varied throughout the year. Sometimes I didn't feel busy enough and would seek other work to do from different teams. However generally I was a 'nice' busy, where I had enough tasks to keep me occupied throughout the day but wasn't rushing around all the time. A lot of weeks I was out of the office meaning when I returned I had work to catch up on, which made me much busier, however I enjoyed being busy like this. I haven't really had any stressful periods during my placement year.

The amount of responsibility I was given varied throughout the year and with different supervisors. I was given some big roles of responsibility at points, which made me feel like a valuable team member as I could give back to the team. I have also had the opportunity to take leading roles in projects, which has been very rewarding. However at other times the responsibility has been minimal. Upon clarifying instructions on a task, the task has been done for me instead, leaving me with less responsibility and fewer tasks to do, which doesn't help me learn as much.

The skills and training I have developed will be hugely valuable in the future. I have improved skills such as public speaking, writing, communication, scientific understanding and I have learnt a huge amount more about the industry which will help me decide my future career path.

The atmosphere in the office was a little disappointing. It is very quiet and not very lively. Most of the time I don't feel I can talk freely amongst those around me as I worry I am making too much noise. Everyone is very friendly though.

The start of the placement was very organised, the set up of equipment and getting us started was efficient, and the introductory training was brilliant. There was a project set out for me which was great as well. However I feel the general plan for my year was lacking slightly, and people didn't really know what to do with me to start with. This did improve throughout the year.

The company really invested in my personal training and development. They encouraged experiences outside of the company as well as in, and sent me on different courses relevant to the industry. Time was also invested in improving skills as well such as public speaking and writing.

Quite appealing- the opportunity has opened my eyes to many different job options so I have more to consider. However I have enjoyed my year and would definitely consider working here in the future.

Not really- some social activities took place, but they weren't as frequent as I expected. However I was friendly with the other interns I worked with and sometimes socialised with them outside of work.

Quite expensive- it was very awkward to travel anywhere to socialise from work, which caused as expense as the nearest place to go out is London.

There is no nightlife in this area- you have to travel away to London or Guildford for example. There are only one or two pubs which are just about in walking distance, but down small country lanes which isn't ideal in the evenings.

Occasionally a trip to the pub for dinner would be arranged.