Finance Placement Student Review

Depending on what time of the month it was, a normal day could be doing my own journals and reconciliations in the beginning of the month. Other times it could be: completing reports throughout the month to help with queries and ad hoc tasks from managers or other employees in different teams. Refreshing data reports throughout the month about pricing and costing. Sitting on calls as part of the finance function within a project, capitalizing new assets or working through issues with invoices.

- Become proficient in Excel and also learnt the basics of Power BI. - Developed further knowledge on accounting functions such as journals, reconciliations, deferred revenue, leases etc. - Communication and collaborating with people from different levels and functions. - General exposure to how a business functions.

Yes - I had my own journals, reconciliations, reports and tasks to do that if were not done would have to be picked up by someone else. Whilst all were important, reports and overrides were relied upon more so than others from other employees. Worked with other teams within Cummins to work on tasks together separate from my initial team.

Due to unforeseen circumstances the handover period was cut short with the previous placement student but both managers were always there to help and explain throughout the placement. Other employees also were happy to take the time to explain processes and tasks. It was always a good environment. Outside of work, my managers were always supportive and flexible to any issues or problems occurring in personal life. Furthermore Cummins gives all new starters Onboarding as well as further training with an external company throughout your placement on different areas like, project management, excel or data insight. There is also a website with lots of courses that you can take whenever.

Everyone no matter on their level was always accommodating and friendly. The office being hot desks meant that different functions could integrate easier. There is also a lot of placement students so there's always someone in a similar situation as you.

I really enjoyed my placement and have learnt so much from it which will help in the future with my career but also for my last year of university. I enjoyed the people I worked with and felt my role was valued within the team. It was a great way to be introduced to working a 9-5 as well as the world of finance.

Yes

Do your research into the company and their values. Prepare for a phone interview as well as an in person interview (online too). Don't be afraid to show personality.