Industrial Placement Student Review

My role is highly varied - as is the role of a structural engineer. But it usually involves completing calculations, making structural models, creating mark-ups, editing spreadsheets or writing reports for projects. I have regular meetings for each project, including formal briefings as well as more informal catch-ups.

I was given far more responsibility than expected. From my first week I was contributing to real projects by developing structural layouts for proposed buildings. This responsibility only grew during my placement: writing reports to be issued to clients, and completing calculations with serious design implications.
On only a few occasions did the work I had been assigned feel trivial or purely to fill my time.

I have learnt an abundance of new technical skills. These include using numerous modelling and computing software.
I have also developed my more transferable, office-based skills. I am now proficient in Microsoft Office programmes as well as Outlook and Teams, which I use extensively.
My soft skills have also developed greatly.

I received ample support and guidance during my placement. This included formal meetings with my line manager, although we could have had more informal chats and developed more of a relationship. That said, I rarely required guidance and believe it would have been provided if I asked. My team as a whole provided lots of support on technical and non-technical issues, and everyone was approachable.

The company culture was relaxed and friendly, with many social events provided and a culture of going for drinks on Fridays. More alcohol-free socials would be beneficial for an inclusive culture. Although there are sports and cinema social events as well.
The work culture feels modern, and there is no pressure to work late purely to climb the ranks. Regular lunch talks aid the relaxed feel.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement. A change of environment from the university bubble has been welcome and has helped put my studies into perspective. While the 9-5 structure was at first a jump from the more free university work schedule, I quickly acclimatised and enjoyed having truly free weekends. On only a few occasions did I find that work was stressful enough to impact the enjoyment of my free time.

Yes