Junior Quantity Surveyor Review

My placement with National Grid was thoroughly enjoyable as it enabled me to become an integral member of a team and participate in a multitude of different events, meetings and tasks.

Towards the end of my placement when I started reflecting and obtaining feedback from stakeholders I have worked with ahead of my final review, I could clearly see what impact I had made and how my contribution had aided specific tasks.

At National Grid, there was always support and guidance when needed, whether it was from my manager, business coordinator or any project stakeholders people I was in regular contact with were always happy to help.

Throughout my placement, I was constantly provided with tasks to complete which kept me busy and when I was in a period of downtime there was plenty of background reading, learning processes and understanding theory which occupied my time. Further to that, National Grid allows individuals to speak freely about asking for work or supporting projects which means you are never stuck doing nothing.

During my placement, I believe I was provided with an adequate level of responsibility on a major project which enabled me to demonstrate my abilities and knowledge towards the role.

I have noticed that during my placement year I have been able to apply a lot of my learning at university to real life scenarios which has enhanced my knowledge. In my future studies, I have no doubt that the things I have learnt whilst in industry will support and enable me to produce more realistic and accurate assignments. In addition, the plethora of things I have learnt during my placement will become vital when applying to become chartered in my chosen profession.

The National Grid department I was working in were all welcoming and friendly and really made you feel part of the team.

I believe the way in which the placement was structured was an effective way for the individuals to demonstrate their development by the tasks they have been a part of at interim points throughout the year. The placement also had a good weighting of real project activities, volunteering community events and team involvement. Overall, it was well organized and delivered.

The company invested a lot in the developing students by providing courses at their National Grid development center. Over the course of my placement, I participated in many different courses which all helped in my personal development.

Extremely appealing as they provide continuing development and the opportunity to work on various projects.

The other placement individuals were always up to taking part in social activities outside of work or when we were stopping over somewhere.

The cost of living and socializing in the area I worked in was cheap and affordable.

The nightlife in the area I worked in was my home town so therefore I knew all the good spots.

Occasionally throughout my placement there were activities where we could get involved which were a good way to meet new people and broaden our network.