Undergraduate Power System Engineer Review

-Actively worked on and lead on innovative Market Trials which involved trialling new technologies such as EV’s in the Balancing Mechanism market of National Grid ESO. This would help determine if such technologies could be used to balance electricity supply and demand. -My role involved engaging with internal and external stakeholders to produce project plans and protocols -I also provided analytical support to the project team to inform discussions and decisions regarding the project

-Learnt and developed data analysis skills such as knowledge of SQL, Oracle databases, Improved proficiency in Microsoft Excel with the use of VBA and Macros -Learnt and developed power system analysis skills such as dynamic modelling and power system studies on software like PowerFactory, improved understanding of the GB electricity network and the energy entities involved within it -Learnt and developed people & self-organisation skills such as stakeholder management, time management, prioritisation of tasks and delivering multiple tasks at the same time

Yes. I started off on training and shadowing but as time went on, I was entrusted to work and deliver on my own tasks. Once I was able to deliver effectively against the first few tasks in a particular skill area, I had quickly become the go-to person for that field of tasks in my team. I was later also entrusted to lead on an innovative first-ever type of project and was trusted enough to engage with both internal and external stakeholders to make decisions without requiring additional support.

I was assigned a Buddy for informal advice, a business coordinator for business process related queries and a placement manager for support on my day-to-day tasks. I always felt supported throughout my placement as I always had the safety net of returning to either of these 3 to ask for advice/guidance on any challenge that I had encountered during my placement. The placement scheme also consisted of a vast number of trainings that helped support me on my day-to-day job.

Everyone at the company was extremely friendly and supportive. The company values team working and work ethics so naturally, all employees that I came across during my placement reflected this. At no point was I belittled during my placement as a placement student and instead was treated as a full-time employee. However, whenever I had a question (even silly ones), someone was always available to help and answer my question. I think it’s a great company to work in with very good working environment.

The company always allowed me to pursue my personal development with the help of shadowing opportunities so I could learn whatever I wanted to. There were multiple socialising events arranged as part of my programme which allowed me to expand my network whilst making new friends. My team also had fun icebreaker activities and team-building activities which helped me get to know my team better whilst enjoying the activity. I definitely enjoyed my placement experience!

Yes

-Stay calm, you do not need to look as a perfect all-knowing candidate. Showing that you’re coachable and willing to learn is a good quality to have. -If you get the placement, do not be afraid to scope out new opportunities. Make sure to take every opportunity to get the most out of your placement experience -Make sure to develop your network around the business. This would not only aid in helping you understand the different areas of the industry but also enable you to know who to ask for help when you need it.