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 found that Finance isn't as boring as people say, and in fact, really fast paced and interesting.
The further through placement, the more valued i felt.
Its quite scary asking for help in a new role, especially something so professional. But my management and supervisors were very supportive and friendly and always gave me time when i needed it.
My role was only 1 year old, so it was still "under development" when I entered it. I felt underutilised when i first started but spoke to my manager and that soon changed. My department is very busy and I work towards many different deadlines. I like this environment, being busy.. if you're after a relaxed laidback year... this isn't really for you.
I asked for more responsibility and I was given it. It was the best thing I'd done and I'm really glad i didn't shy away.
100% skills for life. Placement was an eye opener into the world of finance. But not only job/degree subject specific. I've learnt how to time manage and my attention to detail skills are really going to help me when i finish my degree. I have a great structure to my life and this will be very transferable when going back into my final year.
The Company
The automotive industry is very fast-paced, competitive and ever changing. this brings excitement to the office. At Vauxhall there is always something going on to interest people - this makes things fun and exciting.
AMAZING! Vauxhall is based in Luton, just outside of Luton and I'm from Newcastle (quite the distance) but they gave me comfort and advise when moving. The handover time was well organised and balanced with social events and work. The whole year has been organised well, and I never felt uncertain or unsure of what I was doing.
I was impressed from the training I received in my two week handover and after. I was given Excel training and Presentation training. We also have a great personal development scheme in Vauxhall.
Flexi Time
Subsidised Canteen
Sports and Social Club
Company Car
Subsidised/Company Gym
National Travel
International Travel
Financial Bonus
Company Parties/Events
Staff Sales/Staff Shop
Above 25 days holiday
Working from home
Healthcare from home
Healthcare/Dental
Travel loan
Vauxhall don't offer a Graduate scheme but when jobs come up they ask for people back. If they asked me I'd consider it, but I'm looking at getting a good range of experience in Accounting.
The Culture
Great people to socialise with however Luton isn't a great socialising area.
My rent and bills were at student prices and I didn't have to pay Council Tax. Luton has some great low cost accommodation. However, I was shocked at price premiums compared to Newcastle Upon Tyne when it came to food and drinks.
Not great. London is close and you can get there on fast express capital connect.
I think so, however Its hard if you don't have a car.
Details
Placement (10 Months+)
South East
June 2014