Science is Organised Knowledge

Work experience

For my work experience I went to McLaughlin’s Pharmacy. Initially it was difficult to decide on a placement but I was happy with my choice. I have an interest in science and I wanted to do something related to the subject. 

In the pharmacy, I worked closely with many of the staff including the pharmacist by ordering and sorting medicine, pricing and taking stock counts on items. 

After completing the week, I found that I had gained insight into pharmaceutical products as well as how a business runs. Over the week, I had been helping promote certain products in the shop using social media. 

My organisational skills improved when I had to sort through different products. I also found that my communication skills improved from working at the till and interacting with customers.

I chose to do a second week of work experience in Carbery Group, Balineen. I was unable to avail of a work experience week there on the designated week so they offered me a separate week. I wanted to do something that was related to science. I figured that as Carbery is a huge business, I could see the production areas and labs, etc.

I learned a lot about the production of cheese and ethanol. I was testing powders and I made mozzarella cheese. 

After the experience was over, I had a better idea of food production factories. I now have a better idea as to what goes into making milk-based products.

My science skills and accuracy improved from working in the labs in Carbery. I also had to use a computer to log certain data. Therefore, my Technology and ICT skills were enhanced. 

In conclusion, I enjoyed my experience in Carbery and I think that science based jobs would be good, stable careers that I would like.

Overall, I really enjoyed my experience and I think I would be suited to a career in this line of work. However, I am open to different experiences and opportunities.

Niamh O Donovan