Student Economist Review

I am the student for the Economy team in the OBR. During busy times, when we work on our EFO (see our website), I have to collect Market Determinants a few times. This involves updating our excel spreadsheet models with data from various sources, such as the Bank of England. I also have to work on creating and formatting charts and tables in excel, which are featured in our documents that we publish. As the year has gone on and I have become more familiar with the workplace, I have been granted more responsibility to take on more active roles in producing documents (such as drafting). I've also been able to collaborate a lot with other members of my team (though in varying amounts based on how closely we work together) and the rest of my department. There are many meetings which take place where I can collaborate with others from my department, or learn from them as they present their work. Outside of these busy times, I've been more free to pursue tasks and training which interest me and I believe will be meaningful, such as econometric projects and others, with guidance from my line manager and other team members.

I've been able to develop a lot of Microsoft Excel skills as I have been using it a lot. Also have had great opportunity to develop soft skills, such as teamwork, and working on a project. An econometric project has allowed me to develop my skills in that respect. Greater knowledge of economics in general. Opportunities to present have helped with presentational skills and public speaking.

I believe so. The operations that the Student does is essential. Collecting market determinants is essential for other team members to be able to get on with their work in their respective areas. The charts and tables that I have worked on go into the final document, so it is essential that they are perfect and clear. As the year has gone on, I've been given increased responsibility, such as with drafting. Some projects have potential to change certain aspects on the way that the OBR works.

A lot. My line manager and the whole team in general in fact were always willing to help, and offered help if they thought I was overwhelmed. The whole department was always willing to have a chat and offer any advice if I sought it, and one thing which is particularly great about the OBR is the opportunity to collaborate and chat with people who are several grades above. The team have also been very considerate of my wellbeing at all times.

It was amazing, definitely one of my favourite parts of the OBR. Given our nature as a small office, everyone knows everyone, and we get along really well. The whole office has been very nice to me. One particular thing that stood out to me was the potential to have a chat with people several levels above me, even the Heads of the Office. This is my first office-style job, but I think I'll struggle to find such an interconnected culture anywhere else.

I love working here. I enjoy the freedom with which I've been allowed to complete my work, and pursue interesting opportunities. I have also enjoyed the flow of work, where there have been really busy periods, and more quiet periods where I can work at my own pace. I have also enjoyed the teamwork and company of my other office members, who have been really nice and a joy to work with.

Yes

You give what you get. This placement gives you a lot of freedom and resources to explore and learn interesting things. And the people here are immensely helpful. This placement has exceeded my expectations, and I would highly recommend.