Lauren

Describe your placement experience

For my first semester I did a work placement at Citizens Advice Shropshire. I was able to work on the phones and speak to clients. I worked on a range of issues such as housing, benefits and employment. For my second semester I studied at the University of Wollongong in Australia. I studied four different law modules, I was able to experience how these laws worked internationally.

I found doing a split exchange/placement year best for me as I was able to gain experience of both working and studying abroad. I also had a lot of support from the University of Surrey to find a six month placement which I was initially worried about.

What were the best things about it?

The best thing about my placement was to learn new skills which I will be able to use when I graduate. One skill I developed on my placement was speaking to clients; this included taking and giving information accurately. This is a skill I need for jobs once I graduate so I found this really useful. I also enjoyed being able to experience a different work environment to what I have previously done. 

One of the best things about my semester abroad was I was able to see new places and meet new people. Being able to see Koalas and Kangaroos was also a highlight) I was also able to gain a further views on how laws work internationally which was really interesting.

Have your career plans been informed by your placement?

As I was able to explore a range of different topic areas at Citizens Advice I learned the different topics I would enjoy to work in more. I was also able to learn the topic area I did not like as much which has helped informed me the direction I want to head in when I graduate. During my exchange semester I was able to study additional modules which further helped me decide what I would like to do post graduation but also helped me choose the topics in my final year at Surrey. For example, I really enjoyed Intellectual Property law and I have decided to take it in my final year. I am interested to see the similarities and differences in these laws.

What advice do you have for students considering doing a placement?

I would advise students considering doing a placement/exchange year to do it! Placements help you gain experience which you can use on your CV and makes the transition from leaving university to work less scary. My exchange semester gave me a wider view of my studies and the world.