Communications Undergraduate Review

It was very enjoyable, my role was varied and allowed me to get a lot more involved in the business than I had expected. I was welcomed by my team and the wider department and felt supported throughout. I do believe that this experience will help me in my future career, particularly with my confidence.

The team I was in was fantastic. They supported me throughout and I feel that I will still be using their advice in the years to come. We were a very social team which was particularly nice as I had relocated for the placement year. We were a busy team so I felt that my work was really valued and was making a significant contribution.

My role was extremely varied, therefore, how busy I was, was very dependent on the day. My projects were also generally more long term and extremely collaborative so there were a number of factors that determined how busy I was. Contrastingly, I would be given urgent tasks to complete by close of play or similar by other stakeholders which meant prioritisation was key.

Quite early on I was given a lot of responsibility for the BAU tasks and was allowed to make suggestions and implement changes. I regularly meet with senior stakeholders independently and create work off my own back. I am trusted in my decisions and work on projects independently, however, I know that I can always ask for help and guidance when needed.

My confidence in my skills and particularly decision making abilities has improved immensely since I started my placement. As my role was very varied, I had to quickly learn to prioritise and my time management skills have greatly improved. I attended a course on maximising my influence which covered topics such as making a lasting impression which I think would be particularly useful in interviews.

We had inductions when we started which were really useful to help settle into the business. I attended a two day course on how to maximise influence and impact which was really useful and I felt that the company had really invested time into all of us who were there.

There is a graduate scheme on offer, however, they intake every two years so I would have a wait a year. However, there is an opportunity to apply for a role at the sister company's grad scheme and it is quite common for previous undergraduates to come back in permanent positions.

The social scene was good. I was part of a very sociable team so we regularly do things outside of work. As there are 27 undergraduates, there is always someone around at the weekends and after work to do something with if you want to. Also most of us ended up living in similar areas so they are never that far away either.

It is in the south and not a University town so cost of living, particularly rent, is a little more expensive that I am used to. However, as you are earning it is not unmanageable and there are still plenty of things you can do. I don't feel like I have had to stop socialising because of the cost.

It is very different to a University city with more bars than clubs and a more varied crowd. However, as there are lots of undergraduates there you still feel like you're at university. Also more recently, more clubs in the centre have opened which has improved the nightlife and given you more choice.

There is a really active CSR team, so there are lots of opportunities to volunteer your time to help with charity events such as fun runs as well as charity quizzes. Also the sports & social team offer discounted tickets to sports events and organise trips abroad for discounted rates.