insights How will work experience benefit you?

DO seek out placements in different locations. I did four summer placements in Epsom, York, Bellshill and Croydon.

DON’T hold back. Get involved, take opportunities and go for it!

I was introduced to my other team members, shown around the office and given some background about the company and the business area I was doing my placement in. Everyone was welcoming and enthusiastic about the projects they were working on.

I expected to be shadowing engineers, learning about their projects. I thought I’d be a ‘just a placement student’ gaining some experience for two months.

I was a valued member of my team, making true contributions to projects. I was surprised by how much responsibility I was given to actually put my skills into the mix.

             

When I worked on a research project with other placement students, we arranged meetings with senior members of staff to tap into their expertise. It was amazing how keen they were to support us, given how busy their schedules are!

Before every task, my line managers would explain the project’s background, my role in the project and their expectations. This was really useful and made me feel confident about what I had to do. They also made time to share their own personal insights, which was invaluable!

                

                      

There’s a big Graduate community at AtkinsRéalis and everyone genuinely enjoys supporting each other and hanging out together. The two day graduate induction in Birmingham gave me the chance to meet other Graduates from across the UK. Our welcome event was bowling which was great fun. I also took part in a RedR charity challenge where we did a bake sale every week for our office. 

AtkinsRéalis also has an Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) scheme, which I’m part of. A mentor through the Graduate community is supporting me to pursue my Chartership.

AtkinsRéalis sponsored my final year Master’s group project when I returned to university after my placement. I had kept in touch with staff from the Sustainability network and after pitching my Beach Cleaning Robot project, they agreed to sponsor me. The cherry on top was an invitation to join them at the Flood and Coast conference to display my robot at AtkinsRéalis’ conference stand. This was a fantastic example of the supportive and collaborative nature of AtkinsRéalis!

• I enjoy a collaborative workplace and being part of a team.
• How passionate I really am about engineering and the difference it can make.
• I can do amazing things when I go for it!

How about doing a placement where you’ll be supported to the best you can be? Apply here.