What made you apply for an engineering placement?
When I first applied through UCAS, I wasn't sure how I'd do in my A-level exams, so I kept my options open. Once I got my offers back and realised my subjects felt more manageable than I'd expected, I started to look into other paths I could take.
I wanted the chance to reapply through UCAS and resit the Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT), which would open up more university options. It also gave me time to study further maths during a gap year. An engineer I know also suggested taking a year out to gain internship experience before reapplying, and after thinking it through, it felt like a really good fit for me.
The biggest factor was the chance to get hands-on, paid engineering experience. I'd be building real skills in areas like CAD, design and coding, which would give me a strong head start before university and more time to explore super-curricular activities and Royal Aeronautical Society events along the way.
How has the application and interview process been?
The application process itself was straightforward. I applied to the Engineering Development Trust's (EDT) Platinum Placements scheme, chose a few placements that interested me, and explained why I wanted to spend a year working in industry.
Support from EDT advisers made a big difference. They helped me build a strong CV and guided me through the application process. It also reinforced something I now often tell others applying for engineering roles: having your own engineering projects is a great way to stand out. A lot of my CV focused on independent projects and research, which can really strengthen an application alongside good grades.
I was invited to an online interview with one of the companies, and EDT supported me with a practice interview and advice on answering questions confidently. The interview focused on talking through my projects and tackling some technical questions.
After that, I was invited to a second interview at the company's office. This included:
- a site tour
- a chat about pay and benefits
- an in-depth technical interview with Oxbridge-style engineering and physics questions.
I'm still waiting for a final decision and looking into other options as well, but overall the process has felt manageable, and I'm confident that a placement like this would be really worthwhile.
How does gaining placement experience link to your long-term goals?
My goal is to study a DEng in Aerospace, which is really competitive. One of the biggest benefits of taking a gap year is the chance to build up relevant industry experience before starting university. That experience could give me an edge when applying for internships early on, and help me to start building connections with companies that could support my future career or research.
What skills have you developed so far?
The biggest impact was on my confidence. When you're just starting out, you can't always rely on experience to speak for you, so being able to present yourself well really matters. I found that treating interviews more like conversations, rather than something to fear, can make a huge difference.
I also learned how to explain my thinking out loud. After being used to exam-focused learning, this felt a bit unfamiliar at first, but it quickly became more natural. It's a really important skill for teamwork, and one that becomes more valuable the further you go in your career.
What have been the biggest challenges during the application stage and how have you dealt with them?
There's definitely been some anxiety while waiting, but I've tried to stay calm by reminding myself that I've done everything I can. Beyond that, there's not much benefit in worrying, so I've focused on keeping things in perspective.
It's been a bit challenging at times knowing I'm taking a different path from a lot of my friends, but talking to other people at college has helped me realise there are plenty of routes beyond the traditional ones, and I'm definitely not alone.
Has this process changed how you're thinking about your career or next steps?
Yes, definitely. It's made me more ambitious about my future, because this experience feels like a real head start. More than anything, it's made me excited about my career again, and I feel like it could open the door to opportunities and projects I'm genuinely interested in.
What are employers looking for in early engineering candidates?
A common perception is that early career engineering roles are hard to get, but it's often more about how employer expectations are changing. From conversations with hiring teams at Royal Aeronautical Society events, there's actually a shortage of engineers in the UK - just not a shortage of engineering graduates.
The main challenge is that employers are increasingly looking for graduates who can make an impact straight away, with minimal training. What's often overlooked is how valuable practical experience can be - whether that's through internships or learning industry-standard tools. While strong degree courses encourage this, it's also something you can build yourself, without needing to go to a top Russell Group university or follow a highly competitive degree apprenticeship route.
This is one of the reasons a gap year can be so valuable. At this stage, placement requirements are usually achievable for most students, and they offer a practical way to build the skills that employers are actually looking for.
What advice would you give to someone applying for engineering placements?
- Consider whether a gap year supports your long‑term goals. Take some time to consider where you want to be in the future, and make sure a year out helps you get there - whether that's by building skills employers value, taking advantage of specific opportunities, or getting things done early so there's less pressure later on.
- Engage with professional spaces as early as possible. A lot of the gap year opportunities I found came through organisations like the Royal Aeronautical Society or simply by being active on LinkedIn. Starting early can open up more opportunities, give you a better sense of the industry, and help you build useful connections.
- Pace yourself. Trying to take on too much can lead to burnout, which isn't ideal right before starting university. Instead, focus on opportunities that feel both worthwhile and enjoyable, so you can make the most of the experience without overwhelming yourself.
Find out more
