I completed my placement at Ralph Lauren and I really enjoyed it. It gave me a much clearer idea of the kind of company culture and values I want in the future. They allowed me to explore different departments, including marketing, which was something I had specifically asked about in my interview. That opportunity to learn about different areas of the business was really valuable to me.
The company culture also challenged my expectations. I had this idea that corporate environments would be extremely intense and fast-paced, but that wasn’t the case. There were lots of opportunities to get involved in activities outside of day-to-day work, like sports groups, book clubs and company events. I also had the chance to attend store visits, travel abroad and take part in philanthropic initiatives. It made the experience feel well-rounded and enjoyable rather than just a typical desk job.
My placement year had a huge impact on me, especially in terms of life skills. Before starting, I had a very clear idea of what I thought my life would look like over the next five years, but that’s completely changed now. It helped me realise what I value, not just in a career, but in everyday life. I also learned how important work-life balance is and how to manage my time effectively. Figuring out how to structure my time outside of work, where to live, and how to maintain a routine were all things I hadn’t really considered before but now recognise as essential.