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What are the benefits of undertaking a placement year during a degree?

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Sophie explains why Greenwich was the place for Mathematics and how her placement year benefited her.

Sophie Sherlock Maths graduate

Greenwich is the best decision

Graduate Sophie Sherlock describes her decision to study BSc Mathematics at the University of Greenwich as one of the best decisions she has made. She found her lecturers were always happy to help and approachable and she enjoyed her course, which covered a range of relevant topics. She particularly enjoyed Year 3, where she was able to choose to study from a broad range of modules. Sophie also took advantage of the many on-campus opportunities offered throughout her time at university, which she used to develop her employability skills.

Lecturers make you aware of opportunities happening on-campus or elsewhere that will help you become more employable and set you apart from other graduates elsewhere.

Sophie also enjoyed taking in the surroundings of the intricate buildings on the Greenwich Campus and the scenic views of the River Thames on her way to and from lectures.

Placements give knowledge and skills

As part of her degree, Sophie chose to complete a placement year. Placement years can be taken with this course in sandwich mode, meaning students can take a year to work in industry between their second and final years of study.

Sophie completed her placement year with DEFRA, where she worked as an Operational Researcher. She deeply valued the experience.

I gained valuable skills and knowledge for the workplace. Placement years give you the confidence to enter the working world and apply for graduate roles.

Sophie also found there was plenty of help and support from the university’s Employability Team to assist her in applying for the placement and ensure her journey was running smoothly.For these reasons, she recommends students take the time to consider undertaking one and research further into how a year in industry can benefit them.

Excellent experience for a career

Sophie graduated in 2021. Her Mathematics degree led her to her career – she now works in the Civil Service as an Operational Research Analyst in UK Export Finance. Her role includes data analysis, model development and risk and pricing modelling.

It was the knowledge she gained at Greenwich, and the work experience she gained through her placement year, that contributed to her being able to confidently enter the working world and succeed. She thinks highly of her time as a Mathematics student.

I can’t fault anything about my years studying. I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it, and I think this was due to the people and the support available.

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Maths

Faculty of Engineering and Science