Industrial Placement Student Review

The work placement I carried out was a very enjoyable experience. It was interesting and thought provoking, seeing many different sides to the way GSK operates. There were many tasks and events which involved working both as an individual and as part of a team, which tested my problem solving skills.

I felt extremely valued by my colleagues. I knew a few different people from different departments around the site which helped meet new people, however everyone was welcoming and helpful. Everyone put a lot of trust into me giving plenty tasks which they thought I was capable of, however if any help was required they were easily approachable and happy to help.

I was given plenty support and guidance from my supervisor. My supervisor was part of the Graduate Scheme which GSK run, and so provided support both for the work I was carrying out, and any academic support of which I required. He advised me on programs and training which he felt would enhance my learning and make myself more qualified for potential jobs in the future.

Overall I feel as though I was busy, however there were days which were extremely hectic, and others where there were very little to do. It mainly depended on what was happening at the plant on certain days as to how much work there was available. At the time of joining I was very busy as training had to be carried out along with tasks that were given to me.

During the first few weeks I was not given much responsibilities and instead shadowed other colleagues to become farmiliar with the site and how it works. However after settling I was given a lot more responsibilies and started working on my own. Even though I was working on my own, it was always made sure that i was comfortable with any jobs I was carrying out.

The skills I have developed will greatly assist me in my further studies. They have given me a better understanding of the industry and the work carried out in it. It give a better visual hands on view of the industry which can help in picturing the content I am learning. The training I have recieved will also help with this.

I worked in two seperate offices during my time at GSK. The first office I worked in was the Mechanical Engineering Office, which was a relatively laid back relaxed office, where work was done at a pace everyone was comfortable. Due to this there was a lot of chat through the office which made it more enjoyable. The other I worked in was a Project Office which was dull and boring, where no one spoke.

The placement was set up well, with everything flowing very smoothly. The original set up of the placement was an easy process through SRG. When arriving at the site they were ready and waiting for me. They had training and work set up for me so that there was no idle time between me arriving and getting to work.

They invested a lot of training and development in me. When starting there was plenty training ready, and they were willing to add me to training I felt would help me imprve. They also made sure to include me in any develpement opportunities such as meetings with visitors, sitting in meetings, etc.

They are very appealing, as I have really enjoyed the pacement, and feel I have performed well. It seems to be an enjoyable and relaxing place to work, and would also have many benefits to me also. My fellow colleagues have showing belief in me also makes me feel as though I would be capable of working there.

Yes there was a good social scene. GSK have a deal with a local bar on Fridays, and so groups go there after work. There were often events and meals organised with the placement students and graduates, both to get to know each other and to make the placement more enjoyable.