My name is Emily and I'm a third year Maths student at Bath currently on placement as a Data Analyst at NBCUniversal. With the pressure around competitive applications and "making the most" of every opportunity, I wanted to share a few things I've learnt so far about placement life.
Everyone makes mistakes
It's natural to want to hide mistakes, especially when you're surrounded by people who seem far more experienced than you. But in reality, everyone is making mistakes whether visible or not, they're just expected to manage them themselves.
I've found that much of my actual learning has come directly from getting things wrong. Being honest early and asking questions quickly not only helps you improve faster but also builds trust with your team.
Transferable skills are key
From my experience, I found that the problem-solving and logical thinking skills I gained during my course has far exceeded any fancy equations or modules. These are the skills that lay the foundation and allow you to progress further. However, learning how to apply these skills specifically to the placement work first has allowed me to be naturally drawn towards the more complex mathematical areas outside of my role that I find myself interested in. Also, you will probably discover strengths you never knew you’d developed at university and can build on them and take them back for your final year!
Make the most of the opportunities available
When applying for jobs later on, you will be expected to know things, be ready to contribute and slot into place as quickly as possible. This year is your main chance to learn without as much expectation, so do as much learning as you can!
At the beginning of your placement, using this time to ask silly questions, explore ideas, and gain an understanding of your team is a really good idea for the long run. You don't want to be asking these basic questions at the very end, so try to get comfortable with it as soon as you can.
One thing I’ve realised during placement is how far curiosity can take you. Most of the opportunities I’ve had have come from asking questions, getting involved, and showing interest.
It’s not always comfortable, especially when you’re not fully confident, but that’s where most of the learning is. Those small efforts add up and don’t go unnoticed. I was recently grateful to have this recognised with a GEM (Going the Extra Mile) Award for my work on AI & Automation.
If there’s one thing I’d say, it’s to make the most of being new and take opportunities as they come.
Respond
