Data Analyst Review

I have really enjoyed my placement year with Cummins. I always felt valued, receiving different opportunities and support throughout the business, allowing me to develop a wide range of skills.

My team made me feel welcome from the beginning and always went out of their way to support me. I had a lot of interaction with different people throughout the business globally and everyone I worked with was always approachable and supportive.

I was able to approach my manager for advice and support whenever I needed. We had regular 1-1 meetings to discuss my workload, development opportunities etc. If my manager was out of the office then I could always speak to someone in my department for help if needed.

When I started my placement it was a new role so it took some time to develop. However, this was not a problem as it allowed me time to adjust and learn about the business and have the opportunity to get involved in extra activities outside of my role. Once my role became more established I became very busy, managing different responsibilities and projects.

I was given responsibility to report and present important data to different audiences. I had to work globally with different parts of the business to deliver the required data. I also organised events within the business and ran/ supported important projects.

Through the wide range of opportunities I have received during my placement year I have been very fortunate to develop a strong portfolio of skills which will be vital for my future career. Cummins focus on personal development and I am returning to university with more confidence and ability to present and communicate effectively. My placement allowed me to gain insight into how a global business functions which is something I would not have experienced through university. It also enabled me to see a different application of my degree subject within industry.

The office had a great atmosphere, it was very modern and open plan so I was able to meet people from a range of departments. It also had breakout areas with coffee machines and was a very pleasant place to work.

When joining the business all placements received an induction. The placement year was very structured in terms of training modules and regular reviews with different people. In terms of my personal placement it was not as structured as I would have liked however this was due to it being a new role.

All placements received professional training in a range of important areas such as presenting, adapting to a business environment and customer service. These modules were delivered early on which gave me time to apply the skills I learnt and develop them further. I also received diversity training, health and safety training and team building training within my department.

During my placement I realised how much time and money Cummins invest in their employees, in particular the development of young people. I also experienced how important Cummins core values are and how they are brought to life within the company, which is something that is very important to me. I would be interested in returning to Cummins after graduating as they offer a wide range of opportunities to apply to.

There was a large number of placements and graduates so there was always someone to have lunch with and regular social events were organised outside of work.

I personally found the cost of living quite reasonably priced considering I was renting in a very modern area with strong train connections to London.

There was a number of different restaurants and bars to enjoy however the nightlife was very poor.

There was a number of sports clubs to join both in and outside of work and several local gyms. A sports and social club was also recently created, promoting local events and trips.