This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.
Rating
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The Role
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The Company
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The Culture
- 1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?
- 2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?
- 3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?
- 4. How busy were you on a daily basis?
- 5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?
- 6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?
- 7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?
- 8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?
- 9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?
- 10. What were the perks on your work placement?
- 11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?
- 12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?
- 13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?
- 14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?
- 15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?
The Role
It was very challenging and I was put in the deep end straight away but the amount of knowledge gained in this year has been invaluable. I have enjoyed being challenged and getting a true understanding of the industry.
I had regular meetings with my Line Manager who was a Construction Director, he offered both praise and ways to improve. As for colleagues, I felt treated as per any other manager at Mace.
Constructive criticism as well as praise given. Colleagues very helpful when I ask for training/understanding. Depending on the pressures of the job/schedule certain members would not always be as receptive, but it is understandable.
It varied through the placement as what I was managing changed. I would say though that on the whole I was very busy, I would exceed the working hours regularly. (However some of this could have been due to my time management which has improved)
I wouldn't go as far to say 'running the show' but Mace provided me with as much as I wanted to take on. E.g. From the first week I was given a package to run, which I did for the length of my time.
It isn't a case of just helping you for your degree, this year experience has given me experience that will help in all walks of life. Time management, professionalism, focus, etc have all improved majorly from this experience.
The Company
Had periods of highs and lows dependent on factors with the project. Mostly good environment to work in. Although most of my time was spent outside on site.
Couldn't fault the HR team for their support and help through the year. Clear targets to fulfill and regular session to make sure that I am getting the most out of the experience.
They allowed to complete my SMSTS which is a 5 day course, along with many other courses. Not even just related to what I was doing. My Line manager encouraged me to take any training I thought would help me.
National Travel
Company Parties/Events
They have already offered me a permanent position upon my finishing university. They have one of the best rated graduate programs in the country.
The Culture
HR set up events for all placement students. Also on site the team would set up social events at least once a month
Because it is in London the cost of living and socialising is very high, the placement salary was higher than others I've seen though, which helped.
Very good nightlife, unfortunately due to cost, could not always utilize this. However Mace often paid for drinks at events.
There are plenty of opportunities both inside and outside of Mace.
Details
Placement (10 Months+)
Property Development, Engineering, Environmental Science
London
June 2018