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12 Nov 2009 10:32:47
A work placement during your time at the University of Bedfordshire is one of the best ways of developing stronger business and interpersonal skills.
If you want to experience the world of work, the undergraduate work placement option that the University offers to its Business School students is of a crucial importance in backing up your studies with employability skills.
Students are advised to search for work placements early in their second year to equip themselves with both a degree and relevant work experience.
Bedfordshire student David Sibley was successful in obtaining his work placement with Microsoft and he is now working for them as a RIA (Readiness Information Announcement) co-ordinator. This started with a week-long induction followed by on-the-job training and bespoke skills training.
Although it is still early days, his initial impressions are positive. He said: “I have found Microsoft UK to be a fantastic place to work. The company has a unique, positive, driven and people-friendly culture.”
Microsoft took on 70 interns this financial year and each one has ‘real’ business tasks and accountabilities as part of their roles.
For his role within the Content Release and Readiness team, David has created training documents for the recently launched Windows 7. This empowers Microsoft’s contact centres with the knowledge to provide effective support to customers.
He said: “My placement has helped me gain a clear perspective of global business, and the challenges and opportunities that can bring. I had the opportunity to meet with colleagues at a business conference in Budapest which gave an insight into the challenges that are faced within a global business unit.”
David has completed his MCAS (MS Certified Application Specialist) exams and now has a recognised qualification in Office 2007, all for free.
He is also taking part in volunteering opportunities in a local school to help young people with interview skills.
David said: “I’m gaining valuable, real world business skills which complement the knowledge that I’ve gained with my degree so far.”
There are various opportunities for students wanting to take a placement year between their second and final year of study. Anyone interested should contact the work placement assistant Ramona Pistol at ramona.pistol@beds.ac.uk
Latest news» 2009» November» Work placements can develop your skills
