Quality Placement Student Review

My role composed of three aspects: Morning: Collecting defect data from the production line to be inputted onto the company's internal KPI platform. Then, I would present the inputted data in the team's morning meeting. Afternoon: Perform production line walks to find any defects, respond to customer complaints through their B2B portal and support the team in any tasks when available. End of Shift: Organise defect data sheets ahead of the next morning.

New Skills: I have learnt project management skills through managing a project from start to end. Also, I have gained training in how to process warranty claims for parts produced by the plant. Developed Skills: I have developed further my communication skills understanding how to communicate via different means such as, email, face to face with other colleagues or presenting in front of an audience. Also, I have developed my Excel skills further.

I was fully involved with the team during my placement. I was involved in presenting the defect data every morning for the team, assigned a project to manage independently and got to visit the plants of the customers we serve. During my placement, I got full involvement in the activities of the team and was not left to wallow at my desk.

I gained a great amount of support and advice during my placement. My line manager had an open door policy and I could freely enter the office to discuss any problems I had, ask any questions or ask for any tasks I am interested in. Also, the wider team was a dream to work with as they were happy to answer any questions I had, let me shadow them when they go off to do their tasks and give me words of advice.

The company culture was one of openness where everyone was open with each other and got along with each other. Also, there were multiple social events and activities people could attend from departmental football matches or go out as a team for evening meals. At Forvia, placement students alongside graduates partake in the Charity Challenge which is a great way to network with your fellow students but also a great opportunity to raise money for a special cause.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement as I got to experience a fast paced environment where no one day was the same so I was not bored at work. The team I worked in was great and I have made friends that I will keep in contact with beyond my time here on placement. It met my expectations to a great extent as I wanted to work in a role that was involved problem solving, networking with multiple people and getting the opportunity to go and visit customer sites.

Yes

I would say to research ahead about the company itself and the company's values. When it comes to the assessment centre, practice ahead doing psychometric tests, practice your interview skills and use your university's careers service as they proved to be a big help for me during my application process. Finally, for your interview do not go in anxious. You will have done the preparation beforehand so be yourself, take it at a slow pace and follow through with what you have prepared.