Why did I choose to do the Microplacement Scheme?
I chose the Microplacement Scheme for many reasons. Firstly the flexible hours played a huge part especially as being at university can leave you with large amounts of work at times and minimal amounts at other times. Furthermore, being able to have flexible hours around my studies played a crucial factor in myself choosing it. For example I’ve had part time jobs in the past with little flexibility which can prove difficult when I’ve had large amounts of university work with tight deadlines putting myself under considerable pressure. The real-life work experience of the scheme was also a key reason. Being able to get valuable work experience in the possible sectors I am looking to go into is hugely beneficial as it would make me much more employable in the future. Another factor was the opportunity to network and meet with others around the university that I perhaps have not had the chance to meet before, meaning I’d likely be able to acquire more opportunities in and around the university.
What have I learnt and gained from the Microplacement Scheme?
Overall, I felt that one of the key things I gained from the Microplacement was the sheer amount of real working experience I obtained. Being able to go behind the scenes at the university and apply different aspects of my course in the student life centre on various projects such as the rebranding project where I was required to help out with marketing which was a key part of my degree. Also, helping develop different parts of the website i.e. Adding updated content to the website was also beneficial and allowed me to apply some of the knowledge from my studies. The staff were extremely supportive, and I gained practical knowledge and skills from them as well as being made to feel a welcome member of the team. I also feel that the scheme allowed me to further develop my organisational and planning skills, by having to balance both my assignments and work from the Microplacement scheme. I was given the opportunity to present my findings to others, for example one of the presentations was on the different ways that feedback could be obtained about the Student Life Centre. Overall, these presentations and the feedback I received definitely helped with my confidence, presentation and communication skills.
Would I recommend it to other students?
Yes 100%. I think that the Microplacement scheme is the one of the best part time jobs you can do while studying at the university. With the flexibility of hours, everyone being so friendly, the chance to gain valuable work experience, making it a fantastic opportunity for anyone studying at the university. I would most definitely recommend this opportunity to any students who want to gain some extra money, work flexible hours, meet new people, and gain some valuable work experience on their CV. For example I found it highly beneficial when speaking to prospective employers.
Blog on my experience at University so far | University of Suffolk (uos.ac.uk)