Atkins Geotechnical Scholarship Student Review

Very enjoyable as I had the experience of working both in the office and outside as part of a site investigation.

Colleagues were generally very helpful although only senior colleagues tended to find work for interns, but the work I did do seemed to be greatly valued.

I had regular meetings with my manager, including weekly and half time meetings. He made suggestions on how I should move on and how to get the most out of my further studies also. He commented not just on my work but also on me as a person which I felt was very useful.

Generally if I was not busy something would be found within an hour or so, and on other days I was worked to the maximum. My time varied a lot.

I felt I was not given huge responsibility, however with my current knowledge it would not have been sensible to give me any more responsibility.

As I am moving to a Masters Degree, the knowledge I gained about myself is of most importance. I learnt skills and knowledge to take with me into further study.

The atmosphere was hard working but what just what I expected. I found I got along with those I was sat next to and as such we would often have a laugh between work loads.

The internship was well organised and as there were many within the company people were always aware that you were there. However, with this company work cannot be left aside for a week or so for a student to start it, so the work load is unknown until you have arrived and is always unpredictable. I happened to be there when the workload was fairly low.

The company offered to pay for professional memberships for the following year (such as the Geological Society of London).

I would be interested in working for the company, but as I would have more knowledge and it would hopefully be a full time career, the responsibility and workload would appeal more than gained from the internship.

I was aware of a social scheme but didn't get involved. During my 2 months, only one activity in the office was organised but the also encourage graduates to go on academy meet ups and field trips organised by rival companies allowing you to meet many others like yourself. I did however get the opportunity to meet with all the similar scholarship students in London in my department, including a social outing afterwards.

South London - Rather Expensive (but I was paid enough to cover this and more).

Didn't really have the opportunity to find out as none of my colleagues lived in the area close to the office, so I knew nobody to go with.

I was aware of sports teams that staff were involved in and many of my colleagues were active members of professional societies.