Working abroad
'My year long work placement at L’Institut Français du Petrole in Lyon, France was absolutely fantastic. Integrated into the degree, the year abroad allows you to gain invaluable work experience and get paid at the same time, which makes for a very enjoyable experience. I spent my year abroad working as a Research Scientist synthesising, analysing and presenting new products; a real insight into what it would be like to work in R & D, which helped me decide on career options that I want to take after I graduate.
Working side by side with French people everyday is what makes this programme so great – you get exposure to the language and culture that I don’t think you get with other year abroad schemes; with no native English speakers at my plant if you don’t speak French fluently you won’t understand any of the humour, or gossip that bounces about every minute of every day. My colleagues at work quickly became good friends and so evenings and weekends were never dull; excursions to Parc Asterix, Paris, Switzerland and camping in the Ardèche to name but a few.
If anyone is considering a year abroad work placement I would tell them to go for it - it was one of the best decisions I've ever made, and if given the opportunity to do it all again I wouldn't hesitate for a second - send me back now! Mark, Chemistry, worked in France
Students on specific degree programmes in Chemistry and in Modern Languages may apply to undertake a work placement abroad as an integral part of their degree programme. Full details of these programmes are available through the Schools. The Careers Centre is also a good resource if you are considering a work placement abroad.
The following links may also be helpful:
British Council's Language Assistantship programme
Every year, the majority of WIYA students in Modern Languages participate in the BC's Language Assistantship programme.
European Commission's Comenius programme
Comenius Assistants work in schools and colleges across Europe for 12-16 hours per week. It is another good option for students interested in a career in teaching.
Skiworld are offering the the opportunity for French and German students to complete year abroad placements in resort or office-based positions in areas surrounding the French, Swiss and German Alps. Placements are available in communications, operations and customer service. Individual placements MUST be approved by the School of Modern Languages.
If you are undertaking a work placement in Europe (outside the UK) which will count towards your degree and will last a minimum of three months, you may be eligible to apply for Erasmus funding.