Beth Logan
Discover how Beth made speculative applications to secure her placement year as a trainee farm business consultant.
Tell us about your placement
I worked as a trainee farm business consultant for Laurence Gould Partnership. I was primarily based in the Melrose office in the Scottish Borders but spent one day every week/fortnight in the Dunfermline office. I undertook a 9 month placement and thoroughly enjoyed it!
Why were you interested in doing a work placement?
I wanted to gain a greater insight into an industry which I thought I may like to explore after university when I knew it was for a set time and if I didn't enjoy then it was only going to be 9 months rather than a full time graduate job. I wasn't sure what career I wanted to follow after university - placement helped me decide and I am now excited to get back into working as a graduate consultant.
What support did the Careers Service give you with your placement?
I sent speculative emails to companies which interested me, all 5 applications I did were not through an advertised job role. It was definitely worth doing as all they could say is they weren't interested, but I got interviews and I ended up getting to choose which placement excited me the most. Careers Service were on hand to help me through the adjustment to working relationships.
What have you got out of your experience?
My professional skills have significantly improved. So has my confidence and communication. I have learnt if something is not right or you don't feel comfortable - speak up! I feel so much more prepared for graduate roles than had I not undertaken a placement year. It looks great on my CV and my organisation and work ethic in my final year is now vastly improved.