Placement Experience: Direct Entry & Talent and Attraction Support Officer within the Police Service - Evie Austen

How did you find your placement role? What support did you get from the Placement team?

I found my placement role on MyCareer. I got plenty of support from the Placement Team with writing my CV and interview prep.

Can you describe the process of applying for placement roles? E.g. how many you applied to, if you had a system or sought support from anyone.

I applied to around 6 or 7 placement roles. I made sure that I set at least 1 evening aside to apply to each placement and made sure I started at least 1 week before the deadline in case I had other priorities.

Did you have any concerns or uncertainties about taking a placement year, and how did you address them?

No, I was certain that I wanted to do a placement year, so I was really determined to get one. However, I did not get my offer until April, so the waiting was deflating but a huge relief when I received it. Never give up!

What tips would you give to students about balancing placement applications with university studies?

I would go through your calendar or schedule and try and set aside at least 3 to 4 hours a week to focus on applying for placements. This helped me out as it allowed me to have full focus on my applications as opposed to just doing it in my free time.

Please tell us a bit about the company you work and your role?

For confidentiality and sensitivity reasons I cannot comment on the company I work for. My role involves facilitating career and recruitment events, supporting my team in a direct entry scheme and doing day-to-day admin tasks such as uploading vacancies, sending group mailouts and joining daily meetings.

What challenges have you faced during your placement, and how have you overcome them?

I was very nervous about starting my placement. However, I got in contact with my line manager before I started my placement and asked them all the questions I had, even the small ones like are there any regulations on nails! This really put me at ease and made me feel confident going into my placement as I know what to expect.

What has been the most rewarding part of your placement so far, and why?

 Defiantly the praise I have been getting from my team and my line manager. It is great to hear the impact I am having on the team and how my work is contributing to the wider company as a whole.

Has your placement experience influenced your perspective on your chosen career path or field of study?

Yes, I still want to go into Forensics and perhaps go onto studying a Masters. My placement role is not something I would like to do permanently but I certainly wouldn’t turn down the opportunity to be re-employed by them after I have graduated!

Would you recommend the placement program to other students? If so, what advice would you give them?

100%. Be confident in your knowledge and ability, and do not give up hope if you get a few setbacks!