work experience student Review

my placement was in the haematology department of Chelsea and Westminster hospital it involved observing different cells in blood smears identifying different diseases caused by abnormalities in blood using microscope and setting up slides ready for viewing by the consultant storing old slides with the correct labels with the correct patient information

- how to prepare a microscope slide - how to use a light microscope - how to set up a microscope stage and find the magnification - how to calibrate a microscope and adjust the settings for viewing - how to store sensitive information and the respect patient fluid needs to be treated with - learning a variety of health and safety/infection control procedures

I enjoyed it very much as I have an interesting in haematology after completing my biomedical science degree. To see the intricacies of cells, their different components and genetic makeup was very interesting, and solidified my decision in taking molecular biology as a part of my education further. The consultant was very understanding and explained the procedures taking place and the importance they have on the final viewing.

It was very well organised. The consultant emailed me with an overview of what I would be doing for my time on the placement, and the different departments I was going to spend my time. I was also given a list of things to bring on the first day of my placement, such as ID, which was very useful as this was not mentioned in my confirmation email.

I learned a lot about the company culture and the roles of different members on staff in preparing the slides for viewing. I also learned about how to store used slides and dispose of contaminated instruments as well as the importance in infection control - especially for patients who are HIV positive.

It helped me very much; I also have an interest in cellular biology and the different components of the human body, but this placement solidified this as my future career choice. I find viewing different blood samples and finding abnormalities very interesting, as well as looking into the impact mutations in the blood can have.

I was not formally paid for my placement, and I was told this before my placement began, but the consultant would often buy his whole department lunch, and the invitation was extended to me. I thought this was very thoughtful and definitely appreciated it - it was a very thoughtful surprise!

I was given the chance to talk to other professionals in a variety of different departments as well as other students doing placements within those departments. I was able to talk to students in neurology and orthopaedics, which was a great opportunity to talk to people considering similar career prospects.

Yes

- the placement was very insightful and helped me finalise my career choice - the department is very welcoming to students, and takes their time to explain procedures to students - the placement is very well structured, and you'll never really be bored - there's always something happening! - it will definitely help you decide if medicine is the career for you; you get to see the hospital environment first hand.

- email consultants of specific departments instead of the department email; you're more likely to get a response - include your age in your initial email, and what you think you would gain from your placement - it will help the department decide if you meet the age requirements of certain activities, and if you will benefit from completing a placement with them