Apprentice Scientist Review

I prepare and analyse water samples from public and corporate customers. When samples come into the lab, I enter them onto the database and find which samples need certain tests, depending on which method I'm running. I follow a Quality Index which states the proper way to prepare samples for analysis, and then I run the instrument with the samples in. Once the analysis is finished, I can process the results and send them out to the customers.

I have learnt a wealth of skills specific to the job - I am trained in several different analytical methods such as analysis of Water Solvents and pH using a Skalar Autoanalyser. I've also developed my skills in professionalism, since this job has forced me to work on my time management and work ethics.

I absolutely love my job - preparing and analysing samples in a laboratory environment is so interesting to me. The programme as a whole contains a BSc in Chemical Sciences, which I don't enjoy so much. I'm sure the information I learn in the degree will be very helpful but I definitely prefer the 4 days at work than the 1 day at uni each week.

United Utilities have the work side covered very well. In my first year, I change labs every 3 months so I can learn many different methods in different departments. Then, in my second year I'm placed for between 4 and 7 months so I can focus on one or two particular methods, which I think is a very good structure. The university course has been lacking a bit in structure, with some topics being a lot less well covered than others, but it's usually alright by the exam.

I'm constantly reminded by my managers that I'm always welcome to come to them for help in anything, be it work, university or even personal issues. I work with people who are incredibly knowledgeable in chemistry, so I'm offered a lot of support especially for my university course.

As part time students, we're never the professors' first priority. They'll always try to squeeze as many support lectures in as possible, but lots of the time they don't have space in their schedule to provide the support we need. Lots of our material is pre-recorded as well so it means we often have to wait for an email response to any questions we have.

As much as I enjoy my job, there's not that much 'chemistry theory' knowledge needed for it. It definitely helps solve problems when you know what's going on with the chemicals, but usually as long as you follow the method instructions, someone without a chemistry background would be just as suitable. However, if I were to move up in the company and become a senior or technical, my degree in chemistry would definitely help.

We have a few social events now and then, but there's nothing regular. I'm not too bothered by this since I have university events as well, and transport to any professional events will be difficult for me. A more outgoing person may want more extra-curricular activities at work but for me, there's the perfect amount.

Yes

The company is incredibly inclusive, celebrating cultural history events whenever they appear. This makes working here seem really friendly and welcoming, so I think no matter where you are in the company you'll enjoy working at UU. The business park I work at is also very nicely kept and presented, leading to a better state of wellbeing while on company grounds.

A friendly company wants friendly employees, so if you present yourself well like that in an interview, they'll most likely pick you over someone with more experience but a worse attitude. Once you've proven that you're fit for the job, the rest of your effort should go into bringing across your personality - you want your interviewer to feel like they know you better than any other candidate.