And 13% of employers would not interview a candidate without any relevant experience, according to recent research conducted among Britain’s employers for the Learning and Skills Council.
Colm Lundrigan, 20, is studying Computer Science at the University of Manchester. He did a sandwich placement with AstraZeneca, which will count for 15% of his final degree classification. We asked Colm whether or not his placement was worthwhile.
What attracted you to your particular placement?
The challenge of working in a global corporation as part of an innovative team sounded appealing. AstraZeneca is a recognisable global brand and I felt this placement would have a positive long-term effect on my employability.
What was the application process like? Did you find it easy or hard?
I found the application process to be quite succinct and straightforward. I applied for the job online via the AstraZeneca recruitment website.
I was later interviewed over the telephone by current students and later face-to-face by my future line manager.
What were you required to do while on your placement? Did you have a typical day?
My typical day contained both elements of project management and traditional computing roles such as programming and database management.
My main projects focused on Digital Asset Management, which is the control and sharing of the company’s computer-based graphics, videos and documents throughout a network.
What were the best bits?
I particularly enjoyed working with people across different time zones in a joint effort to meet deadlines. Good communication and a strong team ethic are vital when working with people you’ve never met in person.
The benefit of working alongside professionals reinforced my desire to work full time in a similar business role in the future.
What did you find most challenging?
The AstraZeneca business environment was constantly changing. Learning to adapt to new challenges, sometimes on a daily basis, is something that you rarely encounter in day-to-day life as a student.
What were your hours and pay like?
I worked a standard nine to five, five-day working week for a competitive rate. The cost of being a student can be daunting, but now, thanks to AstraZeneca, I can leave university without any debt.
How do you feel you have benefited from the placement?
I have grown in confidence since my time at AstraZeneca and now feel that on completion of my chosen degree I will be able to progress comfortably with my career.
I have met some inspiring people and have had time to think about my future direction in life.
Has your work placement confirmed your career aspirations?
Yes, I now look forward to a promising career in project management within the IT sector.
What advice would you give to students who are yet to apply for a work experience placement?
I would advise anyone with the opportunity to do a placement to apply for one. I recommend that students research a company before applying so that they can acquire a better sense of that company’s professional aims.
This information allows you to make an informed decision about which placement is best for you.
Taking a step back from studying gives you time to get perspective on your career path. You can also learn valuable business skills, which can be applied to boost your final degree classification.
A student placement will add invaluable experience to any CV and increase your chance of being employed in the future.
