I chose to apply for the R&D graduate scheme because of the friendly atmosphere and fast pace of the work that I experienced during my year in Industry at the company. I also couldn't turn down the opportunity to continue to work on such well-known brands!
I worked in the Airwick Operations team on a number of different products. This included assessing consumer complaints, testing raw materials from new suppliers and developing new products. Towards the end of my placement I was made the lead of my own New Product Development (NPD) project. I relished the responsibility of this role and was really happy to see my product on the shelves before the end of my placement.
Very Fast, and very responsible! Just like in my placement, I've already been given a lot of responsibility and am enjoying the opportunity to learn on the job, rather than just in a training room! I've been given the freedom to make my own mistakes and learn from them with the support of the team.
Personality is key! I know it's a cliché but just be yourself, don't pretend to be something you're not. Another cliché: work hard, play hard. During the working day, get your head down and get on top of your work, but also be social with your work family!!
