Summer Placement Review

The work provided for me wasn't project based, but rather task based. Whilst this did give me a wide variety of things to do, the learning curve was not straight forward, as new things had to be learnt for each task. That said, I feel I came out with useful knowledge.

As I was working independently on a task, I did not interact with colleagues regarding my work. That said, the office environment is very friendly, and people are very approachable if you want to discuss an issue or something you're stuck on.

My line manager was very friendly, and was always available to talk if I wanted to have a chat. He was able to guide me in the right direction when familiarising myself with the tools and software I was using. My Technical Lead was able to answer all of my questions regarding the technical aspect of my placement, and helped with my understanding of the project I was working on.

The tasks given to me kept me busy, but not in a bad way. The internship was structured so I had a list of tasks to complete, but my progress was not strict. Whilst the work I was doing is useful to the company, it was a learning experience, and they understood that. If things ever got too hectic, I'd step out for 10-15min to clear my mind with a cup of tea, and come back with a fresh perspective on the problem.

What I was doing was quite structured, and the tasks I were doing had certian requirements they had to fulfill. When discussing things with my technical lead, he would often ask me "What would you do", or "What's your view on this", which made my opinion feel valued and that I could have some design input into the project.

The design skills I learnt on my placement will directly help me with my 3rd year project and beyond. In addition, instead of University knowledge rotting away over summer, my mind has been kept active with the knowledge I will need for 3rd and 4th year.

The office is a relaxed, friendly environment. Everybody peacefully gets on with their work, but everybody is really friendly and approachable, even the senior staff! This means that if you ever get stuck or want someone's opinion on something, you just have to walk over and ask. People in my office also listened to music through headphones as they worked, as did I. It was nice, as people would just get on with what needed to be done whilst listening to their music.

My tasks were structured and discussed with my technical lead on my first day. As they tasks progressed, I would get more details about each one, such as background info, what needs to be done and so forth.

The company run various events for employees to get involved with other departments and to gain knowledge. Lunch & Learns are where a seminar is held and lunch is provided, so you really do eat and learn! In my department, they had doughnut sessions, which a presentation was given with free doughnuts. You'd be surprised how many people turn up when doughnuts are on offer!

Persoanlly, I have not discussed it with my line manager yet. However, given previous accounts, most intern students are offered another placement, and then a job afterwards.

Interns organised various social events, from punting in Cambridge to a Friday night down the pub. Everyone was really friendly!

Living costs were about the same as university, but my accommodation here was much smaller for the same price.

Didn't really get a chance to experience.

Various groups within ARM organised outside events. I for example was offered to volunteer at the APM, which allowed me to see how ARM is projected to other companies.