Environment and Natural Hazards Industrial Placement Review

The placement was highly enjoyable. I was already interested in the research area and had the opportunity to develop my knowledge and interest.

As part of a small team I felt valued by my colleagues and that my contribution towards their deliverables was valued.

I was offered a good introduction to the projects I was working on so that I was aware the aims of the project from the beginning. Regular update meetings were useful for discussing my work with colleagues. If I was ever stuck or unsure it was always ok to ask.

There was always something to do I never felt bored. The work load did fluctuate (busier at some times and less so at others), however this comes with the nature of research based work.

I was given the responsability of producing my own reports with guidence and of ensuring these were delivered on time. I had the opportunity to present my work to customers across the business.

The experience I gained was valuable, I was able to put the knowledge I had gained at university into practice and I gained new skills too. The experience working in a professional environment with lots of different people and other project partners was particularly worthwhile and has definitely increased the amount of job interviews!

The atmosphere was friendly and I felt welcomed by my team and the wider group. Annual awaydays provided a good opportunity to get to know other teams better.

Placement was well organised, there was a plan for which projects I would work on when I arrived, however the admin process when I first started took quite a long time.

I felt the company definitely invested in my development. I was able to travel to different meetings with the team and they were happy to support me in taking up additional volunteering (for example becoming a STEM Ambassador).

I would be happy to continue working for the company, however the staff turnover is quite high (lots of interns and placements) and there are not a lot of permanent positions available.

There is a careers network for placements and young members of staff however I felt this was mainly focused on other parts of the business in other locations. There are sometimes after work drinks etc. with other staff and placement students. Lunchtime wise there is a good amount of socialising, everyone tends to sit together / go out for lunch together.

The office is close to London so the cost of living is relatively high compared to the rest of the country. After rent theres not a great deal left for an active social life but it is possible if you are savvy.

The office is a half an hours train journey from central London, so plenty of nightlife available. The nightlife scene in Croydon didn't suit me but there are still a few god pubs and the Boxpark for food and events.

There are occational social events organised, but theres not a lot of activities after work available at the Croydon office although I belive this is different at other locations.