Placement Student Profile: Aoife McMenamin

This week we caught up with Foods Connected's Business Placement Student, Aoife McMenamin to learn a bit about her experience with the company so far!

1. What course are you study and where?

I study Consumer Management and Food Innovation at Ulster University in Coleraine.

2. How did you hear about Foods Connected?

Foods Connected was one of the initial placement opportunities that I explored. My course coordinator Amy Burns informed us about the fantastic year-long placement opportunity via email; my attention was instantly caught.

3. What attracted you to a placement with Foods Connected?

Before commencing with the application process, I decided to find out more information surrounding Foods Connected. From the outset, I was extremely interested in what they offer as a company. My personal interests include traceability within supply chains and sustainability; so, having the opportunity to be part of a company who are committed to simplicity via world class software was extremely appealing. The idea of moving around different departments within the 12 months and develop new skills is what finally sealed the deal for me!

4. What does a typical day look like for a business placement student?

A typical day for a placement student in Foods Connected is different. We are very lucky within the company to move between departments every three months. From Implementation, Customer Support, Trace Connected and Business Intelligence. From reviewing tickets to creating analytics, it’s all happening! At the end of every day, you are assured to feel like you have accomplished something and learned something knew.

5. What do you like most about working at Foods Connected?

For me, it is the feeling of being appreciated by the whole team. It can be very daunting coming into a company where everything is new and being placed out of your comfort zone, but I quickly discovered that everyone is willing to help you develop your software knowledge and help you grow as much as possible; this helps you feel part of the team from day one.

6. What do you hope to get out of your placement year with Foods Connected?

At the end of the 12 months, I hope to have gathered a good level of Food Industry knowledge; this should assist me when it comes to progressing into final year. Additionally, I also hope to have developed my current skills whilst welcoming new opportunities for growth of skills.

7. What advice would you give to students considering a business placement at Foods Connected?

If you are willing to continuously learn and to develop professionally, then Foods Connected is a fantastic placement opportunity that I would thoroughly recommend to students seeking out placement!