Sabhia's placement story at Bentley

What are you studying at Manchester Met and what made you choose it?

I am a Banking and Finance student at Manchester Met. I chose this course because I am really interested in the financial sector and want to learn more about banking, investing, and financial management. Manchester Met provides a broad curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications - which is required for a career in finance.

What journey did you take whilst looking for a placement?

My journey finding a placement was both challenging and rewarding. It began with thorough research to identify companies that aligned with my career goals in the finance sector. I attended career fairs and networking events organised by the university to connect with employers. The university’s career services provided support, offering workshops on CV writing, interview preparation, and application processes.

I applied to multiple placements, tailoring each application to highlight my relevant skills and experiences. Persistence was key, as I faced several rejections before finally securing a placement. Throughout the process, I learned the importance of resilience, and proactive communication. The experience helped enhance my professional skills and confidence.

What is it like going on placement?

Going on placement is an extremely beneficial experience. It provides a unique opportunity to apply the academic knowledge I received during my study to real-world finance. The shift from education to the professional world was initially difficult, but it was also extremely fulfilling. 

During my placement, I acquired hands-on experience, practiced practical skills, and learned how to handle a professional environment. I got the opportunity to work on significant projects, collaborate with experienced experts, and get mentorship that was critical to my development.

Furthermore, the placement enabled me to establish a network within the business, which has benefited my future professional possibilities. It was a valuable experience that not only improved my grasp of the industry, but also increased my confidence and job readiness.

Describe your typical day-to-day work while on placement.

My placement in Bentley Motors’ Project Finance Department was engaging. Each day began with a team meeting to discuss projects and set priorities. My tasks included financial data analysis, report preparation, and budgeting assistance.

I worked on financial modelling to support decision-making and collaborated with various departments. Attending management meetings provided insights into the strategic aspects of finance. This placement enhanced my analytical skills and gave me hands-on experience in financial operations.

What was your favourite part of your placement experience?

My favourite aspect of my placement in the Project Finance Department was the ability to work on high-impact projects. Participating in the financial planning and analysis for significant projects was really rewarding. It allowed me to observe personally how financial decisions affect the overall success of a project and the organisation. 

I also appreciated the environment and the opportunity to interact with outstanding individuals from other areas. This not only expanded my knowledge of the automobile business, but also improved my teamwork and communication abilities. Presenting my research and recommendations to management was both demanding and gratifying, instilling confidence and understanding into strategic decision-making. 

Overall, the experience and professional development, and a supportive staff made my placement at Bentley Motors a highlight of my academic career.

What skills or experience did you get on placement that you’ve taken forward into your final year of study and will utilise when you graduate?

During my placement, I learned important skills and received useful knowledge that I will use in my final year of studies and after graduation. 

1. Analytical Skills: Working on financial modelling and analysis helped me improve my ability to analyse data and make judgements. 
2. Project Management: I learned how to manage various projects effectively, prioritise work, and fulfil deadlines. These skills helped me balance my academic stress and will be useful in any professional context. 
3. Communication and Presentation: Presenting results and recommendations to senior management helped me strengthen my communication and presentation abilities. This has given me confidence in public speaking and the ability to communicate difficult information in a clear and concise manner. 

Do you think you could have done anything differently during your time at University which could have helped when going on placement?

Reflecting on my academic experience, I believe I could have done a few things differently to better prepare for my placement: 

1. Increase my Engagement with Career Services: While I did use the university’s career services, I might have benefited more from the workshops, mock interviews, and networking events they provided earlier in my academic career. These materials are extremely useful for developing the skills and connections required for a successful placement. 

2. Improve Technical Skills: Investing additional time in learning specialised technical skills, such as advanced Excel, financial modelling, and financial software usage, would have been beneficial. While I learned these skills throughout my placement, having a solid foundation beforehand would have helped. 

3. Network with graduates: Establishing ties with graduates who have successfully completed placements may have provided helpful insights and advice. They can provide advice on what to expect and how to make the most of your placement experience. 

If you could give one piece of advice to those starting their placement journey, what would you say?

If I could give one bit of advice to individuals starting their placement experience, it would be to be proactive and take the initiative. Don’t wait for possibilities to present themselves; instead, actively pursue them. This means going beyond the responsibilities allotted to you—asking questions, soliciting comments, and volunteering for projects that interest you or correspond to your professional aspirations. Being proactive shows your excitement, commitment, and eagerness to learn, which can greatly improve your placement experience and make a good impression on your supervisors and colleagues. Accept every opportunity to grow, network, and build your talents, since these experiences will be extremely beneficial to your future job.