Structural Engineering summer placement Review

My placement at Arup was very enjoyable and rewarding. I had the opportunity to experience what it is like working as a structural engineer within a welcoming and supportive office environment. I was involved in a wide variety of projects allowing me to develop an understanding of structural concepts, gain skills using computer software and conduct research into new areas of engineering.

Throughout my placement, I felt welcomed and was treated like a valued member of the team. My contributions were always appreciated and it was extremely satisfying to see how they were incorporated into the projects.

There is a real sense of teamwork within the office, staff are quick to share their knowledge, engage in discussion and offer their expertise, not only to me but to each other. Everybody was willing to offer their support and I am extremely grateful for all the help I received.

For the most part I was kept busy and engaged with the projects I was working on. However, like any job, there was occasions were work be slow. In this instance, my colleagues were quick to find me something to do or I kept busy reading up on different projects or completing computer software tutorials.

I feel the amount of responsibility was appropriate to my level of skills and knowledge. All of the tasks were worthwhile and beneficial, each offered a new aspect of engineering to explore or the chance to develop a skill. Similarly, I was never overwhelmed by tasks outside my capability or demanding time constraints

The diverse range of projects allowed me to develop an understanding of structural concepts, gain skills using computer software and improve my confidence carrying out calculations. All of which will be beneficial towards my degree studies or future graduate roles. The placement provided a great insight into the industry and allowed me to gain a greater awareness of how the company runs. I experienced the different roles and responsibilities of a structural engineer which has helped me to decide on a particular career path.

The atmosphere in the office was very relaxed and welcoming, there is a clear sense of fulfilment and drive within the company. The office layout is very efficient and works well, the hot desking system allows people to move about and work alongside each other, creating an enthusiastic environment that is full of discussion.

In terms of the overall structure of my placement, there wasn’t a great deal of organisation. However, this meant I was completely flexible and could get on board with tasks as and when I was needed. Similarly, colleagues could involve me in projects when they had the time, allowing me to experience a greater range of projects and tasks.

The firm invested a lot of time into helping me make the most of my experience, I was treated like an ordinary member of staff and invited to team meetings. Through the company’s online system, Arup university, I was enrolled onto training sessions courses in ethical standards and company policies.

Arup has spent many years building its reputation as an innovative and competent engineering firm, meaning you get to be involved in some of the most exciting and rewarding projects. The forward-thinking nature of these projects means there is opportunity for constant development and growth alongside the company, something that is very appealing.

Arup is a very social firm, everybody is very friendly and events are constantly being organised.

The location of the office, in the heart of the city centre means it can be easily accessed by train or bus, making it possible to find accommodation for any budget. The cost of living is relatively low, and it is possible to find cheap places to eat and socialise.

Sheffield offers a very diverse nightlife with a wide variety of clubs, bars and restaurants to choose from, there is something to suit everybody’s taste. The atmosphere around the city at night is generally lively and feels safe.

During my six weeks, there wasn’t a great deal for me to get involved in. However, Arup is a very social firm and I was aware of events that were being held in the future.