This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.
Rating
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The Role
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The Company
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The Culture
- 1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?
- 2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?
- 3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?
- 4. How busy were you on a daily basis?
- 5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?
- 6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?
- 7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?
- 8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?
- 9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?
- 10. What were the perks on your work placement?
- 11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?
- 12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?
- 13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?
- 14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?
- 15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?
The Role
I was given great exposure to a variety of challenging, interesting work. Those I worked with were friendly and helpful.
I was treated from day 1 as if I was a full-time graduate employee. I never once felt that my colleagues saw me as a burden. Instead, they ensured I was kept busy and got a variety of different projects to work on.
My mentor was in regular contact despite the fact we were not working together for the majority of my placement. Senior staff took the time to introduce themselves and answer any questions I had.
I never felt bored but, at the same time, didn't ever feel as though too big a burden was being placed on me.
It's difficult to expect a great deal of responsibility given the short-term nature of the placement and the lack of professional qualifications. That said, I felt I was given a similar level of work to the first and second year graduates.
I have taken much of the practical experience back and applied it to University. The people skills gained from working in a team and liaising with clients will stay with me for life.
The Company
There was a relaxed and often fun atmosphere but professionalism was always maintained.
There was some confusion surrounding my start date but aside from that everything ran smoothly and was organised for me.
There was an emphasis from those I worked most closely with on aiding me in whatever way possible. I never felt unable to ask questions or seek clarification over issues.
Subsidised Canteen
Sports and Social Club
The firm were great and the staff excellent throughout. In the end, I decided the line of work was not what I wanted to pursue. However, I would definitely consider working for the firm in the future.
The Culture
I didn't socialise much with fellow placement students as you are usually on-site at clients and don't see them. However, there were social events with the full-time staff that I was invited to and attended. In addition, I was included in the football which some staff organise frequently.
I live locally so this was not an issue. It is reasonable though compared to elsewhere.
Knowing the area well, the nightlife was good however I still visited many places I hadn't previously been as they were common for the staff to go to.
There were social events and also five-a-side football games.
Details
Internship (1 Month+)
Scotland
May 2014