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
It was an amazing year throughout which I have learned a lot and feel much more confident now going into my final year at university.
The culture at GSK is very supportive and focused on personal development. I have received constant feedback which showed me that my colleagues not only value my work but are really keen to help me improve.
My manager was great, she provided me with the support and guidance that I needed but was not too directive in a way that would discourage my own thinking and creativity. She encouraged me to go and talk to different people to get more insight on whatever it was that I needed to know and also helped me expand my network across the HR organisation at GSK.
I was always kept busy and was always stretched to do the maximum that I can and even though sometimes it felt a bit overwhelming, the truth is that learning comes from stretch and practice and I can safely say that I have enjoyed being busy at GSK.
I was given a lot of responsibility and I can say with confidence that this allowed me to make real impact to the business unit I was working for,
Now being back at university I can see just how much I have learned during my placement year. It is not only the soft skills that I have acquired but also the knowledge about how an organisation actually works and how what we study at university fits into the real world.
The Company
My colleagues were very professional, well humoured people who made me enjoy my time at the office and always gave me a friendly smile when I was feeling down. Everyone was very busy but I have always been given the attention that I needed and never felt left out or unsupported.
It was quite well organised, my induction was well thought of and besides there was a formal training event for new starters to help them get introduced to the company. Throughout the year there were formal meetings with a placement students' account manager where you could ask any questions, share concerns, etc. My impression is that the scheme is very well structured and is giving students the opportunity to give feedback as well.
I had access to several online training courses which have really developed my skills and knowledge in the area that I have chosen. I also attended a face to face course on Talent Management which really enhanced my interest in the subject and I have since been thinking that this may be a career field I would want to pursue. Everyone is also given access to the online archive of Harvard Business Review and several others Harvard Manage Mentor courses to improve employees' business skills and knowledge.
Flexi Time
Sports and Social Club
Subsidised/Company Gym
Company Parties/Events
Subsidised Canteen
Financial Bonus
Staff Sales/Staff Shop
I have applied for one of their graduate schemes and really hope to have the opportunity to go back someday.
The Culture
Yes, there was a network for placement students throughout the organisation and we have been on several events together as a group which really helped with networking and getting to know people from different areas of the business.
The area was quite expensive but it was really quiet and I have really enjoyed living and going out in the area.
Apart from the corporate events, I cannot really say there was a lot of nightlife going around in the department.
Yes, there was a tennis club competition going on, there were a lot of different classes at the gym. People were also encouraged to spend some time during charity work both as an individual and as a team.
Details
Placement (10 Months+)
Business Operations
London
October 2014