Name of Student: Maisie Jepson
Job Title: Education Support Assistant
Company Name: University of Exeter
Description of Organisation:
The University of Exeter is a public research university located in Exeter, Devon, South West England. It is one of the top 150 universities in the world and ranked among the top 15 universities in the United Kingdom. The university offers exciting courses in beautiful and historic surroundings. It is a member of the UK’s prestigious Russell Group of leading research universities.
What was your biggest achievement on your internship?
Probably getting the role in the first place! But I would say the role has provided me with many opportunities for development in university admin-based roles. It made me feel great to know how much my contribution was valued by the team, and I was able to secure permanent employment in the role following my contract ending, which I have just started this week.
Were there any challenges during your internship and if so, how did you overcome these?
I wouldn’t say there were any specific challenges, but the sheer amount of things I’ve learnt have been a positive challenge for me. There have been moments where I was extremely busy and took on additional workloads during short-staffed times, but I felt I was able prioritise successfully.
What were your reasons for undertaking this internship?
- To improve my job prospects by expanding my CV and what I can draw upon in interviews.
- To gain experience and knowledge within a specific occupation or field.
- To earn money.
As a result of my internship…
- I have improved my communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
- My job prospects have improved by expanding my CV and what I can draw upon in interviews.
- I have developed specific skills that could help me in the future.
- My overall confidence has increased.
During the internship…
- I received learning and development opportunities which could be helpful for my career (e.g., online courses, research development or mentoring).
- I received regular feedback from my manager/supervisor.
- I received regular feedback from my manager/supervisor.
- Overall, this internship has been a positive experience.
How, if at all, could the support offered before or during your internship be improved?
I felt very supported and grateful to have been able to get this opportunity via Exeter’s internship team.
Would you recommend this internship scheme to other students?
Yes, I would recommend this internship scheme to other student because it offers skills building, allows the ability to work at a company which could lead to permanent employment and makes contacts.