Industrial Placement-Commercial Analyst Review

I enjoyed every aspect of my Placement and felt positive and motivated about my role and responsibilities each and every day.

Although i was a Placement student my thoughts and ideas were treated with the same respect and authority as any other member or staff within the organisation. I could really see the value i was adding to my team and department through the work i was delivering. Colleagues were always extremely supportive and great at giving feedback that allowed me to develop myself in key areas.

Support and guidance was vital during my Placement and i felt that the management team were always open and available to provide me with it. Working with experts in their field allowed me to learn and develop my own ideas about the energy industry.

I was given a great amount of responsibility that ensured that i was occupied on a daily basis. However during quieter moments i was always able to work on my own development plan, including improving my business awareness or being proactive by looking into how to improve on certain skills.

Even at Placement level i was given a large amount of responsibility. An example was being given the opportunity to work on a report that was a required License Agreement made me feel empowered and trusted by my Supervisor. However i believe that to a certain extent you have to earn your responsibility throughout your Placement, proving what you can do to your immediate and wider team.

I believe that the skills i developed throughout my year will be invaluable throughout my final year of university study. Not only have i improved in certain skill areas, i feel that my development as an individual will benefit my approach to my academic studies. The confidence you gain throughout your Placement should stay with your during your degree and into your future career.

My department never failed to work hard and to the best of their abilities, however there was always room for a laugh or a joke. I learned to adapt my behaviour at times when the team was under pressure and enjoyed the working atmosphere.

My Placement was well set up as my team had prepared for me in advance so i did not have any IT issues for example. There was a ready made network for new starters so felt comfortable that i had someone to turn too if i did have any issues. I had a clear development plan and communication between my University and my Organisation ran smoothly.

Opportunities were always available to attend relevant training courses and i was encouraged to take time out to attend Director talks and company briefings. I felt that the company wanted to invest in me to assist me with my development, in turn that i would be adding value back into the organisation.

They have a good Graduate Scheme that is well structured and organised, allowing you to continue your development on from your final university year.

The Placements and Graduates all socialised together frequently. The Newnet network also provided opportunities to get to know other Placements/Graduates.

Warwick HQ is a desirable area to live so living and socialising costs were not cheap, however the area was safe, friendly and offered many different opportunities to suit all tastes.

Leamington is notable for having a good nightlife, popular with students and more mature colleagues alike.

There were active sports and social clubs that advertised events all year round, as well as schemes to get involved with to give something back to the community as well as developing yourself.