IP Student Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement. I would love to work there again.

My work colleagues were very welcoming and I quickly felt part of the team. As there were only approximately 50 employees, the workplace was a very friendly and inclusive environment, I was able to know everyone in the building very quickly. My colleagues showed appreciation for my work, they seemed to really value me as a placement student and were happy to give advice about work and other topics such as future career choices.

My supervisor showed sufficient support and encouragement whilst giving me independence and the ability to problem solve on my own, which really enhanced my skills, knowledge and proactive approach in my work. If my supervisor wasn't available, there were usually plenty of other people on hand to ask.

In this line of work, there was overall a good balance, as experiments could usually be planned to suit your work style. There were very busy periods but also quieter periods throughout the year.

As I was carrying out an individual project, I was given almost total responsibility for the outcome of my own work, expect for the help of my supervisor when necessary.

The skills and training I developed and received on this placement will be very valuable for a future career. General skills such as problem solving, communication and diligence were key to this job, which are essential skills for most career paths I see myself pursuing. Technical skills gained in the lab were also skills that will help to some extent in my final year of university, as I have gained an greater understanding of the techniques I performed on a regular basis. These skills will become useful if I continue in a career in scientific research.

As mentioned previously, my office had a really friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It was a fun place to work with sufficient activities planned for after work and occasionally lunch times by the social committee (which I became part of). This allowed the opportunity for a good work/life balance.

My placement had a good outline of what they expected me to achieve by the end of my placement. Overall, the organisation was good.

There were quite a number of training sessions organised for me and other placement students to attend, some outside of the work place to other GSK sites. They also included IP students in departmental days and training sessions, which made us feel just as valued as other employees.

I am focused on applying to GSK again, this time for a graduate scheme in scientific research and also other areas of interest.

There were only 4 placement students at the GSK site I was placed, nevertheless we still had a good social scene between us. Also due to the social committee in our workplace, I was able to help organise frequent social events outside work including our other work colleagues (not just IP students), which I really enjoyed being a part of.

Cambridge prices are quite high in comparison to most other parts of the country, however the wage I was given by GSK was sufficient to live off and still enjoy my time there.

As it is a student city with two universities, it had a good nightlife. Lots of pubs too!

Yes, I was involved in a number of sports clubs outside work. There was a sports centre just round the corner from my workplace.