What is a placement year?

One of the major perks of studying International Business, Finance and Economics (IBFE) at the University of Manchester is the opportunity to undertake a placement year. A placement year allows you to step out of the academic bubble and immerse yourself in the professional world, applying your theoretical knowledge to real business situations. It’s a chance to gain first-hand experience, develop key workplace skills, and understand what a future career in your field could look like.

Why Choose a Placement Year?

In today’s competitive job market, securing a first-class degree is no longer a guaranteed ticket to a graduate role. Employers increasingly prioritise industry experience, and graduates without it often find themselves at a disadvantage. This reality strongly influenced my decision to incorporate a placement year into my degree. I knew that gaining practical experience would significantly strengthen my prospects and help me stand out.

Securing a Placement

The application process was intense and required resilience. I began applying in mid-September of my second year and sent out over 60 applications. This resulted in 42 HireVue interviews and 6 assessment centre invitations. It was a clear reminder that securing a placement is a numbers game and rejection is part of the process.
In March, after months of effort, I finally received the call I had been hoping for: I had passed the final-stage interview at a big four firm and was being offered the placement. That moment made the entire journey worth it. My biggest advice to anyone going through the process is simple: stay consistent, keep applying, and don’t let rejection discourage you. Persistence truly pays off.

My Time on Placement

I began my placement the following September. Walking into the office on my first day knowing I would be spending the next 12 months there was both exciting and overwhelming. Adjusting to the professional environment was a steep learning curve, especially transitioning from the flexibility of university life to a 9 a.m. office routine and formal dress code.
Working at a Big Four firm exposed me to a fast-paced environment where no two days felt the same. My typical day included checking emails, updating our team task tracker, attending daily stand-up meetings, and spending the afternoon working through assigned tasks while seeking guidance from managers and engagement teams. As I gained confidence, I was trusted with more responsibility and gradually became more independent in my role.
There were certainly moments when the long hours lived up to the Big Four stereotype, especially during reporting deadlines. However, as a placement student, I felt incredibly supported. My team always ensured I had the help I needed, and the collaborative culture made even the tougher days manageable.

Key Takeaways

Although the journey wasn’t always easy, I value the experience immensely. My placement year has prepared me for adulthood and gave me a realistic understanding of the corporate world. I’m more confident, mature, and self-assured than I was a year ago, and I now have a clearer sense of direction.
One of the biggest benefits was securing a return offer, something that roughly 80% of placement students receive. Knowing I already have a graduate role waiting for me has taken a huge weight off my shoulders and allows me to fully focus on making the most of my final year at university.
Undertaking a placement year has been one of the best decisions I’ve made, and it has shaped both my personal development and my future career path in ways I never expected. If you’re on the fence about doing a placement year, take the leap. The growth, confidence, and clarity you gain are genuinely transformative.

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