Placement Year: More Than Just Work Experience

Recently I completed a placement at Pembroke and Rye as an Assistant Designer. It was an experience rich in opportunities — I worked on a diverse range of campaigns, collaborated with the whole team and took the lead on various design projects. 

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 There are many learnings you would expect to take from a placement year; adjusting to the 9-5 routine and working to tight deadlines, but it provides something valuable and unexpected too. I was immersed in a fast-paced environment, and the diversity of my workload meant I was constantly working on different projects, testing my skills and developing me far beyond what I learned in the classroom.  

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The office was a place bursting with different interests, passions, and exciting ideas. Working as part of a smaller team not only offered the chance to build strong relationships with colleagues, but it also gave me the space to understand my own role in a team and the value of my voice. In an environment of encouragement and positive feedback, my confidence blossomed, and I saw real improvements in my work throughout the year. 

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For students, a placement year is also a great chance to explore different areas of the industry and even discover new paths which might interest you. As with most university courses, my Graphic Design course can lead to many different areas.  

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Real-world experience is the best insight into what working in each area might be like. It also provides clarity when the time comes to plan for graduation; in some cases, the relationships you build while on placement can offer the possibility of future employment.