Industrial Placement Review

Overall I loved my year as a placement student. There were some parts I found repetitive and boring but I learnt so much and the work I was doing felt worthwhile and like I was making an impact on the team. I met so many great people and enjoyed coming to work every day.

My colleagues made me feel like I was part of the team from the beginning; I never felt like I was less valued because I was a placement student. Everyone was willing to help with any queries. Everyone was friendly and it was a great environment to work in.

The support was excellent- I felt I could discuss anything with my supervisor without judgement and he gave an appropriate level of guidance. I was given flexibility and allowed to make my own decisions without feeling lost. In addition, the level of contact with my supervisor and manager was also appropriate.

It varied throughout the year. At the start I wasn't very busy and had to fill the time with a lot of reading; there was also quiet periods throughout the year. Some periods would be very busy- but my colleagues were understanding and made sure that the work was not overwhelming.

The level of responsibility grew throughout the year at a rate I was comfortable with. At the start, I had a lot of guidance from my supervisor and towards the end I was treated as another scientist , working independently. I appreciated having responsibility as it made me feel valued in the team and that the data I was generating was worthwhile.

This placement will aid me greatly in my future career with the scientific and transferrable skills I have gained. I have many experiences to add to my CV and feel like I have become a more well-rounded person. I have also gained an insight into industry and have got the perspectives of different scientists at different career levels.

The overall atmosphere was relaxed and friendly; the office was pretty quiet and work-focused despite being open-plan but people were always up for a chat. It was also possible to work in quiet rooms for more focused work. The lab was more lively with music and chatter, so working in the lab was enjoyable.

The communication from SRG wasn't always clear especially regarding holidays. My initial manager left before I started so it felt quite unorganised at the familiarisation day, but by the time I started everything was sorted. I had my own project and was given more work when my project didn't work out as planned.

There was plenty of lectures on up to date research that you were encouraged to attend, aiding my scientific development. There was also workshops on scientific writing, CVs, job interviews etc. My supervisor was also invested in my personal development. At the start of my placement I received the relevant training, however this could be disorganised at times.

I would be open to returning to GSK in the future as they are a great company to work for. There is the opportunity to get recommended for the Future Leaders' Programme (GSK grad scheme). Although a job cannot be guaranteed, my supervisor has said if a position was open I would be likely to get it.

I have made great friends with other placement students. There were also a few good socials that were organised by IP UNITE such as a boat party and Christmas ball. There were a few socials within my department as well including meals, a BBQ, and a Christmas party in London.

It was relatively cheap considering the proximity to London. My rent was £200 cheaper a month than uni, although some people paid a lot more; the commute was also cheap (bus/ cycle). With a paid placement it was easy to live comfortably, with some spare money for socialising and travel.

Nightlife in Stevenage is pretty poor, there are a few clubs and numerous pubs including two spoons. I went to the pub with colleagues or other placement students quite a bit, especially on a Friday. London is very close and easy to get to so that was always an option.

I'm not too sure- I know there were some sports teams in GSK including football and netball. There are also the usual community activities going on in Stevenage.