A Year in Industry: Adding Real World Experience to Your Degree

Nathan Arbuckle knew the benefits of having high quality, relevant work experience on his CV so he decided to take the Year In Industry option.

How did you set up your placement?

I applied to many different roles and spent a long time completing online tests and interviews before securing a place at Volkswagen Financial Services. It often felt like an additional module, but it was worth all the extra effort in the end.

Where was it and what did your work involve?

I worked in risk management at Volkswagen Financial Services at their offices in Milton Keynes. My work involved large amounts of data analysis and problem solving using the company’s multi-billion pound portfolios.

Where did you live during your placement?

I relocated to Milton Keynes for my placement as I wanted to be in the office as much as possible.

Were there any nerve-wracking moments?

Starting a year in industry and the prospect of having so much responsibility can be scary, but it was important to remember that I was going to be guided throughout the process and I was only entrusted with what I could reasonably handle.

How do you think work-work compares to uni-work?

Working feels tiring in the beginning and you begin to appreciate the weekends a lot more! Once you get into a solid routine and a gain a strong sense of purpose it all begins to feel natural!

How do you think your placement experiences have changed you?

I have a greater appreciation for time management and how to balance professional and personal tasks. I also have a greater idea of the kind of career that I want to pursue.

What was your favourite memory?

Definitely receiving the phone call to be offered the placement. Knowing that all the hard work had paid off!

What about support from the University while you were there?

The university were always there if I needed support or had any questions regarding my final report or queries regarding returning to university.

You did really well in your assessment, what qualities do you think helped to achieve that?

Starting the report while working so that you have access to all of the work you did before you leave! I also made a point of asking for tasks throughout my placement that would provide relevant evidence for my report.

How has the placement aligned with your career aspirations?

I knew I wanted to work in financial services, but I did not know how many different jobs existed before my placement. I have been exposed to so many different career paths that I did not previously know existed!

What do you think your Year In Industry time will add to your resume and your overall job prospects when you graduate?

My year in industry adds real world experience to my CV and will certainly help me get a job once I graduate. The wide array of skills that I have learnt such as advanced use of Excel and other data programs as well as the knowledge of risk management and finance in general will be transferrable to any job I enter.

Finally, what advice will you give to the next cohort of YiI students?

Make the most of your year! Enjoy earning a salary and living in a new place, make the most of being part of a company and soak up as much knowledge as possible. If you find yourself bored at work, ask for different tasks, the year is what you make it.

Nathan Arbuckle is studying for a BSc (Hons) Economics with a Year in Industry

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