UK&I Network Services Compliance Co-ordinator Review

I was given real responsibility for a role, with expertise held by myself not known by other members of the team it meant that my knowledge and actions were key to success. When this was coupled with the excellent atmosphere due to the large number of students it made for a great placement!

Although I only worked in a small team directly I was embraced by IBM's wider community, and they try to make you feel as at home as possible,

IBM has two managerial structures, 'Foundation' and day-to-day. You will have a manager for both of these aspects, the former focussing on professional development with a network of other students/graduates for further opportunities. The day-to-day manager will be your task manager able to help with everyday issues and questions about your specific role.

My role relied on the existence of issues elsewhere in the business and as such at times it was more busy than others. Learn to love the quiet times and thrive in the busy ones

It would be over-egging it to say I was too important, IBM could still have functioned without me. But the work I did involved ensuring that IBM was in compliance with contracts and as the only person in this role when I was absent etc this work was not completed as I was relied upon.

Most relevant for degree is time management skills. Further life skills involve application writing, professional conduct, career planning, confidence, presentation skills etc...

My team was fairly dynamic in terms of locations and spread out around the country and home locations, so my actual office environment was often quiet. However there was always other students or colleagues around to grab a coffee and a chat with.

Much of the placement was well organised, with so many placement students it had to be, confusion came towards the end of the placement surrounding how we were to apply back to the company.

The company was prepared to invest a substantial amount, however you have to go and look for it.

IBM helped with career guidance and highlighted the many opportunities available helping me to choose an appropriate graduate role to apply for.

In my office there was around 70 students so the social scene, at the beginning at least, rather resembled a more upmarket freshers week.

For some reason taxis were very cheap. If you could manage/face going out on a midweek student night then prices were ideal, however as this is not always acceptable expect to pay more than at Uni (but then you are getting paid).

There wasn't a great deal, but as a Uni town there was always enough going on - it's what you make it.

Give-back events involve helping at community events or IBM run events for the company. Also many sports teams etc.