Ricky Kinsman, 23

Where did your interest in building surveying stem from? ?

I always had an interest in buildings and construction and had worked in the construction industry prior to starting a Building Surveying Degree at Plymouth University.

Where did you first hear about C&W?

I first came across C&W when looking for surveying firms to apply for work experience with. They also manage Drake’s Circus shopping centre near Plymouth University, so I had seen their advertising boards there.

Why were you interested in a business placement position at C&W?

I initially undertook a summer internship with C&W to get an insight into the day to day activities of a commercial building surveyor. Towards the end of my internship, I was asked to stay on for a year as a business placement student. The placement year was highly recommended by lecturers on my course and to work for a high profile company such as C&W was a great opportunity.

What was the recruitment process like to get your position?

The recruitment process involved submitting an application online as well as an online numerical test. Following this there was an interview, followed by a group assessment. After passing the first interview and group assessment, I was invited back for a second interview with a partner from the Building Surveying department.

What have you learnt during your business placement?

I have learnt a lot whilst on placement. During my placement, I saw how theory taught during my university degree is put into practice in day to day working situations. I also learnt things that weren’t covered extensively in university, such as dilapidations and party wall. I improved my all round technical building surveying knowledge. The placement year also provided a good understanding of how a large commercial firm works.

What types of projects are you involved in?

I have been involved in a wide range of work, from Pre-Acquisition Surveys through to Dilapidation work. I have worked on a large portfolio of Reinstatement Cost Assessments for a large investor. Currently we are undertaking a large number of inspections of property and reporting on their condition on behalf Crossrail. The projects I have been involved in have been broad and covered a wide areas of the building surveying profession.

What do you think graduates need to succeed at C&W?

Enthusiasm and a good work ethic are standard requirements for most jobs, in addition C&W are a very social firm and the ability to get on with colleagues and willingness to meet new people are very important too.

You will be returning to University in September and rejoining C&W once you graduate, what advice do you have for perspective business placement students?

I would recommend getting as much work experience possible, either as a business placement student or a summer intern. The experience provides a good insight into your future career and there is always a chance of a job offer at the end of it. And you get ahead in your APC! C&W are also providing me with some sponsorship for my final year and this will really help.

Are you involved in any of the sports/social activities at C&W?

C&W enter a team in the property softball league and I have played in this team during my internship and my placement year. It’s not too serious and is a good chance to meet people both inside and outside the firm. We also get given a decent social budget for drinks etc. I have also taken part in the annual 5 aside football tournament. This takes place just outside Wembley stadium and teams from C&W’s European offices come and take part. It’s a great opportunity to make contacts across EMEA.