Placement years at Leeds Beckett

The actual experience

One of the biggest advantages of a placement year is the real-world experience it gives you in your field of study. It’s one thing to learn about a subject in lectures and seminars, but applying that knowledge in a professional environment is a completely different challenge.

I realised this when I secured a legal internship at a law firm. I had assumed that my coursework had prepared me well, but stepping into a real legal setting was eye-opening. It wasn’t just about knowing the law, it was about applying it in high-pressure situations, working with clients, and handling unexpected challenges.

This experience completely changed my perspective. Working in the firm helped me understand what the job truly involved, and more importantly, it made me realise how much I still had to learn. Without this experience, I might have gone into the field with unrealistic expectations.

Networking opportunities

A placement year doesn’t just build your skills, it also expands your professional network. Before my internship, I didn’t fully appreciate the power of networking until I attended a law careers event at Leeds Beckett.

At first, I felt completely out of place. Everyone around me seemed so confident, effortlessly making conversation. But after pushing myself to engage with professionals, I quickly realised how valuable these interactions were. One solicitor I spoke to explained that many job opportunities don’t come from formal applications but from personal connections and recommendations. That conversation stuck with me, and it made me more proactive about networking moving forward.

Getting back to routines

One thing that isn’t talked about enough is the adjustment of transitioning back to university life after a placement year. While it can take some time to get back into academic routines, the skills and confidence gained during a placement often make the transition easier in the long run.

After my placement, I initially felt a little out of sync with coursework, but I soon realised that the discipline and time management I had developed during my internship helped me regain focus more quickly than I expected. The practical experience I gained gave me a new perspective on my studies, making my coursework feel more relevant and engaging. If anything, my placement experience helped me approach university with a renewed sense of motivation and direction.

Competitive programmes

It’s also important to remember that placement opportunities can be highly competitive. Even if you’re eager to gain work experience, securing a spot isn’t guaranteed.

I experienced this firsthand when I applied for a training contract with a different law firm as well as a placement position. I spent weeks perfecting my CV and cover letters, making sure my applications were as strong as possible. Despite my best efforts, I received rejection emails from both opportunities. It was frustrating — I knew I had the potential, but so did hundreds of other applicants. This taught me that while placements can be incredibly valuable, they’re not always easy to secure, and rejection is part of the process. It also showed me my resilience and persistence, I didn't let rejection put me off or take it personally - I continued to apply until I was accepted for a placement year at another firm.

Using the Beckett Careers Team

Throughout my time preparing for the placement, I found that the Beckett Careers Team was an invaluable resource. They helped me with everything from refining my CV and cover letters to providing interview tips and connecting me with alumni. The team also organised career fairs and events that gave me the opportunity to meet potential employers and gain insights into the industries I was interested in.

Their support made all the difference in securing my placement and staying on track. If you’re considering a placement year, I highly recommend reaching out to them - they can provide guidance and resources that will make the process much smoother.

Is a placement year right for you?

If you’re considering a placement year, here are a few key questions to ask yourself:

• What are my career goals? Some fields (like engineering, business, and healthcare) place a strong emphasis on work experience, while others may not.

• Is the placement paid? If not, do I have the financial stability to support myself?

• Can I reach out to students who have done a placement year to hear about their experiences?

Talking to people who have been through it can provide invaluable insight into whether it’s the right choice for you.

A placement year can be a great way to boost your career, but it’s not the right choice for everyone. It’s important to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks, such as the difficulty of securing a placement and the challenge of returning to university afterward. Ultimately, the decision should align with your career goals, financial situation, and personal learning style.

For me, my placement was a turning point, it gave me clarity about my career and invaluable experience that I couldn’t have gained in a lecture hall. But every student’s journey is different, so take the time to figure out what’s best for you!