Industrial Interviews: Ali Sharif

Chemical engineers at work 10 February 2016

Hello everyone. Hope the Christmas break was nice and relaxing and you’re all prepared for the new semester! Our next industrial experience interview is with third year student Ali Sharif. He’s working for a water treatment company, so something a bit different to the oil and gas companies we’ve had before. I’ll let you read on and hear more from him.

Hi Ali – thanks for chatting to us. What company are you doing your placement with? Could you tell us a bit about what they do?

Hydro-x is a water treatment company based in the outskirts of Sheffield. They do a lot of service work on cooling towers, storage tanks, boilers, and general domestic water systems.

What was the application process for the role like?

The application process was quite simple – there was the initial CV and Cover Letter followed by an invitation to an assessment day where candidates were asked to give a 10 minute presentation, have a 20 minute formal interview, and a partake in a 30 minute group activity. Successful candidates were phoned up on the following working day.

And what does your average day consist of at the moment?

My average day varies a lot, some days I can find my self in the office carrying out some administrative work, looking into service sheets, and filing them appropriately. Some days I’m out with engineers carrying out service visits on towers or cleaning tanks.

Are there any big and interesting projects you’re involved in?

There are a few projects which I am involved in at the moment, some are trials into current chemical products the company sells. I am also looking a lot into chlorine dioxide, which the company values greatly!

What new things have you learnt during your placement?

I’ve learnt a lot from my placement so far! I feel like my communication skills have improved immensely after talking to colleagues and managers all at different levels of the company. I feel like I have developed the confidence to implement and express my personal views among working professionals. I also believe my presentation, writing, and problem solving skills have improved after working with a lot of data.

What’s been your favourite part about the role so far?

My favourite part of my role is the fact that it’s so diverse. Everyday seems to have a new challenge which is something I really like.

What are your other interests? What do you do in your spare time?

My other interests outside of work consists of meal outings with work colleagues, along with going to the gym in my spare time and going to the cinema with friends and family.

Finally, do you have any advice for people thinking of doing an Industrial Placement?

My only advice would be to never give up! I applied to so many opportunities and roles starting from September. I received many rejections and felt out of it but I kept applying and managed to get this placement in June!

Thanks Ali. Coming up we’ll be having some more industrial experience interviews focusing on various sectors, along with a piece about the RAG London to Paris bike ride.
See you next time!

Words – Words – Sam Peckett

Chemical EngineeringThe University of ManchesterWater treatment