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 had very little previous lab experience from my University Degree and therefore this year has taught me a considerable amount of laboratory and analytical skill.
I was one of 8 industrial placement students, of whom I felt valued by. I was respected and valued by other colleagues within my department.
I was given considerable support and guidance by my supervisor. I was also given independence to be initative with my own experimental design.
As long as I managed my time efficiently I felt I had a good balanced work load. However some experiments required me to work longer on rare occassions.
From day one I was given independence in the lab. I always knew my supervisor was around to offer advice and guidance if needed.
I feel the skills I have developed will be invaluable in my final year project, as well as applying for post graduate study or further study. It has provided me with a whole years worth of laboratory experience, learning many new skills. As well as experience working amongst other scientists and for a large pharmaceutical company.
The Company
The atmosphere was very relaxed and welcoming. I felt I could approach and talk to my colleagues. There were many events held on site including lectures and seminars which were very interesting.
This overall work palcement was organised extremely well.
I had to complete many online elearning modules on my arrival.
Flexi Time
Sports and Social Club
Subsidised/Company Gym
Company Parties/Events
Subsidised Canteen
Financial Bonus
Staff Sales/Staff Shop
I would happily continue working for GlaxoSmithKline however I feel I would benefit from continuing in education and gaining a phD first. My interest in applying for a phD has been fueled by my laboratory experience here and advice from colleagues.
The Culture
As one of 8 Industrial placement students within my department and on a site with over 100 other students in various disciplines I felt the social scene was very good. Similarly, the christmas party with my fellow colleagues was alot of fun.
The cost of living and socialising was approximately the same as when I was at University.
The night life was not great in comparison to Brighton my University town. However working with other students meant we travelled further a field together to go out of a weekend.
I joined a local netball club for the year to keep up the sport.
Details
Placement (10 Months+)
South East
May 2015