Shazia Akhtar
Accounting and Finance BSc (Hons)
View the course- Placement role: Finance Co-Operative
- Placement organisation: Rapiscan Systems Inc
What were the benefits of undertaking a placement year?
Undertaking a placement year provided me with valuable opportunities to develop skills beyond the classroom. It allowed me to gain practical experience in areas such as professional communication and technical tools like Excel, which are difficult to fully learn through academic study alone. Additionally, it helped me build confidence and prepared me for the expectations of a real working environment.
What employability skills have you developed from your placement?
I developed key skills such as professional communication, teamwork, and time management, improved my technical abilities, and gained experience in handling real workplace tasks and responsibilities. I also enhanced my ability to work independently in a professional environment.
What advice would you offer students applying for a placement?
Actively network and make use of existing connections, as opportunities can often come through people you know. However, it’s also important to build your own professional network by connecting with others, asking questions, and showing interest – being proactive and open to opportunities can significantly increase your chances of securing a placement.
What do you feel was the highlight of your placement year?
The biggest highlight of my placement year was the social life and independence I gained while living abroad. Building a new life in a different country allowed me to meet new people, experience a different culture, and grow personally as well as professionally.
How do you feel your placement year will help you in the future?
It has prepared me for the expectations of a professional working environment, as well as helping me develop practical skills, such as communication, time management, and technical abilities, which are highly valued by employers. The experience has also increased my confidence and made me more adaptable, giving me a strong foundation for my future career.