Materials Characterisation Review

My job revolved working on several projects simulataneously so I was able to contribute to a number of smaller projects rather than one big project. Personally, I found this more interesting and really enjoyed the wide range of work I conducted.

My team was made up of a number of student/apprentice resources as well as full time colleagues. Everyone was treated the same within the team and especially by the end of the placment when I had a wide range of skills, I felt like a valubale member of the team.

I had a lot of support from my line manager. Another team memeber also offered to coach me through the main techniques I was working with. Equally, I felt like I could go to anyone in the team to ask help on their expertise.

At the begining of my placement I always had work to do but because I was still in the process of training my skills were limited. By the end of my placement, I was the most valuable as I had built up a strong set of skills, and I was very busy.

I was responsible for my workload and time management. I could ask for guidance and advice if I needed it but ultimately it was my responsibility to priortise tasks and meet all my deadlines.

I have thoroughly advanced my lab skills, I also have had the opportunity to understand and use instruments that I had learnt about at university but not given the opportunity to practically use. I also advanced by lab report writing skills by writing technical reports for the work I had conducted.

There is a very friendly atmosphere in the office, everyone gets on well which helps.

I never had any problems while on placement and considered it to be well structured and organised.

I have recieved a lot of training on many different instruments. I have also had the opportunity to talk to my manager if I would specifically like to be trained on an instrument. I personally feel like a lot of time has been put into training and development for me.

There is always opportunities if you work hard and put the effort in.

I personally didn't get invovled with the other students as I lived at home and there was a good social scene within my department.

I work locally to by home and so I had the oportunity to live at home so I didn't have to worry about the cost of living.

You have to travel to Canterbury for nightlife. There are two universities there so there are always student nights and events.

I got involved in a lot of STEM activities. The company offers you 5 volunteering days in addition to your holiday.