Case studies: Sandwich placement, Computacenter: Nikki Wilson

Nikki Wilson is studying Human Resources (HR) and Events Management at the University of Hertfordshire. She recently completed a one-year placement at a leading IT company to help her pursue her career in HR

A placement year was not an obligatory part of my course, but I knew that to have a career in HR I would need to have work experience. Halfway through my second year I applied for a role at Computacenter and was successful, being offered a role as HR assistant.

My daily tasks included taking minutes for meetings, diary management and answering the telephones. I also shadowed other members of the HR team on case work, which helped me to gain an understanding of the industry.

I got to assist the occupational health adviser, help out with the HR mailbox, where employees would email their queries relating to HR, arrange assessment centres for potential new recruits, and organise a stress workshop for employees.

My placement has given me invaluable experience and furthered my knowledge through practical learning. Although every HR department will be different, I now have the background knowledge to help me move forward with my career.

I'd definitely recommend taking a work placement, as you are able to see if a career is going to be right for you, and it can help you to understand your work in a real-life business environment, rather than exclusively in a classroom.

To get the most out of the experience, don't be afraid to ask questions, and if training is available to you, take it!