R&D Engineering Industrial Placement Review

Developing understanding of products through modelling activities and physical testing. Collaborating internally and externally to ensure that patients receive high quality, robust products. Using technical skills/knowledge to support department needs by working on a wide variety of projects across the product lifecycle.

Throughout my placement, I developed a range of technical and soft skills. I had the opportunity to develop soft skills such as communication, effective time management, presenting to both technical and non-technical audiences and stakeholder management. I also now feel much more confident in my technical ability and learnt several new skills as well as developed existing skills. There were lots of opportunities to develop the skills that I wanted to and felt supported doing so.

I was given responsibility immediately when starting placement and all of the projects that I worked on had purpose and contributed to wider department objectives. I was eased into projects and these started small and grew in size/impact once I demonstrated my skill set and ability to deliver.

I was given lots of support on projects and everyone I worked with was always patient and happy to help and share knowledge. I was also supported in my personal and professional development outside of my role. I had a mentor within my department, a graduate mentor and also engaged with relevant employee resource groups.

GSK's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion was clear throughout my placement. The department I worked in was high-performance and a great example of what a productive and professional environment looks like. I was always made to feel welcome and as though I was making meaningful contributions to the team. Everyone I interacted with was genuinely willing to provide support/share experiences/give advice - especially as a placement student. There were plenty of development opportunities to engage in and managers were generally very supportive of this.

I thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of my placement (the work/the culture/the development opportunities) and would come back to GSK as a graduate if the opportunity arose.

Yes

Don't panic about being perfect, you will not be expected to know everything, that the point of a placement - to learn. Demonstrate passion, enthusiasm, a willingness to learn and develop, and alignment with GSK's core values.