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Year of study and course title

Sport and Exercise Science, Year 3

Where was your placement, and how long was it?

I did my placement at the FAW Innovations Hub based at M-SParc. It lasted from October 24 - March 25.

What type of work did you do during your placement?

I got involved in a range of things, attended a conference to help raise awareness about the project, carried out market research, did a literature review, designed an experimental study, and put together an interim report. It was a good mix of research and practical work. 

What skills or knowledge from your degree did you use?

I used quite a bit from my degree, especially around research methods, critical thinking, and understanding sport science principles. The skills from modules like data analysis and scientific writing really came in handy, especially when putting together the report and study design.

What was the most valuable thing you learned?

For me, it was learning how to apply what I’ve studied in a real-world setting. Being part of a live project and seeing how research is used outside of uni was a great experience. It also showed me the importance of communication and working as part of a team.

Did you face any challenges, and how did you overcome them?

Balancing the placement's academic side with the hands-on work was a bit tricky at times. I got through it by staying in regular contact with my uni supervisor and the placement mentor, which helped me stay on track and manage expectations on both sides.

How well did your university support you before and during the placement?

The support was perfect. Before the placement, we had prep sessions that helped with planning, and during the placement, I knew I could reach out to my supervisor if I needed anything. That definitely made things less stressful.

Has your placement influenced your career goals?

Definitely. Being part of something innovative gave me a taste of what I’d like to be involved in long-term. I also know with absolute certainty that research is the career path for me.

What advice would you give to future students doing a placement?

Go into it with an open mind and get stuck in. The more involved you are, the more you’ll learn. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or share your ideas, placements are a great chance to grow both professionally and personally.