Are SEPnet Internships Worthwhile?

[H Smith 94]

Hi!

I am currently a 2nd year physics undergraduate looking for a summer internship. Our employability mentor is really pushing this http://www.sepnet.ac.uk/students_employers/careers_placements/internships/info_students.html and I'm interested but worried about how useful it will actually be.

I'm always a little wary of employability mentors as I know they have a lot of boxes to tick and don't always provide the most useful or fulfilling work advice. Essentially I don't want to waste my time when I could be doing something more worthwhile.

Is there anyone here who either works as part of the SEPnet network or who has taken an internship or placement via SEPnet, and what would your comments be about it?

Thanks in advance!

Regards,
Harry

 

[sk1105]

Yes, apply for SEPnet! I'm 3rd year, and I applied to several of the placements last year, although sadly didn't get any offers. When studying physics, work experience is key to stand above your peers after graduation, and SEPnet is one of the more worthwhile schemes. For instance, employers are only accepted on to the scheme if they can demonstrate that the intern will be working on a meaningful project that actually makes a difference to the organisation, so no making tea or photocopying! The employers are also (mostly) STEM-oriented, so the experience will be relevant to your subject.

So my answer is an unequivocal 'yay' - SEPnet definitely provide worthwhile placements, and being provided with a list of opportunities is surely easier than trying to find placements yourself. Just look through the list to see if any interest you.

Finally, a curiosity: which university are you at?

 

[H Smith 94]

Lovely! Thank you for your answer. I shall begin applying asap!

Finally, a curiosity: which university are you at?

I am currently studying at the University of Kent at Canterbury.