Hamish Scott, IBM

How did Keele Business School support you in securing your placement?

Keele Business School and in particular Sharon Farrow, the placement officer, were extremely helpful and supportive when I was looking for placements. Every week Sharon would send an email listing every placement role which had applications open, highlighting those which were closing soon. The Business School also ran a specific module, which focused on employability skills and application advice, this helped when I was writing applications and interviewing for roles.

What did you learn/gain during your placement?

My biggest learning curve throughout my placement was gaining an understanding of how large, multicultural organisations operate and how to effectively work for one. I was also able to develop and improve my communication and organisational skills as well.

Would you recommend a placement to your friends? Why?

Without doubt I would recommend a placement to my friends, the main reason for this is that a placement gives you the chance to experience working in the 'real world'. It has also given me a better understanding of what I want to do once I have graduated.

How has the experience benefitted you in terms of your final year studies and graduate career?

My placement has given me a strong idea of what I want to do once I have graduated, before my placement I did not really know what I wanted to do. There is also the possibility of me returning to IBM in a graduate role, this is something which a lot of placement students do. My placement year has benefited me in my final year studies as I have a better understanding of what work is really like and I am able to apply my experiences to my academic work.