How placement got me a graduate role with EDF Energy
Tori Cooke, Environmental Management student, shares how her placement with EDF led to a graduate role.
Placement is the best thing I have done for my career to date! It helped me to secure my graduate role in the same company as I had developed a good understanding of the industry and built a solid professional network within the business. Companies often strive to retain their placement students after graduation, so make sure to make a good impression and work hard if you want to return there in the future. It may be daunting, but it will most likely be so worth it!
When did you begin looking for a placement?
I began searching for placements around the beginning of second year. I searched for advertised and structured placements in companies that interested me and I was particularly looking for a role in the energy industry. I prepared my CV and cover letter with the help of the careers team and received feedback on this prior to applying. The most difficult part of the application process was the online aptitude test, and then after this I had to complete a phone interview with the early careers team and video interview with the hiring managers.
What were some practical considerations you had?
I had to relocate to GB (Bristol) for my placement, so had to secure accommodation in advance and used spare room for this. I also had to arrange flights, appropriate clothing to wear to work and transport of all my items to England.
What were your duties on placement?
I was office based with the ability to WFH 2 days a week. I worked full time (37.5hrs). I had regular tasks to be completed each month and also got to help out in projects the wider team were working on. I really enjoyed my placement and was glad that I took the leap to move somewhere new.
Do you have any advice for students considering a similar placement?
Avail of networking opportunities and don’t be afraid to ask questions. My line manager and team provided great insight into how career progression within the company works, and this helped me to secure my graduate role there. Wider networking is also beneficial, as you can learn about other roles outside of your team that you may be interested in.