SIX third year business studies students from Limerick University are undertaking an international work placement at Friends Provident in Castletown.
Imelda Toner, Rebecca O'Callaghan, Aisling Fitzell, Ronan Murray, Eoin Tuohy and Diarmuid Noonan will spend eight months with the company to learn about working in a real-life business environment.
Nuala Trimble, assistant manager in the HR department, travelled to Ireland last year to interview the potential candidates for the work placement scheme.
She said: "I was impressed with the large number of applications we received and the significant interest shown in Friends Provident International - particularly as we are one of 50 international employers who participate in the work placement programme.
"All of the applications were of a very high standard which made the selection process an onerous task. Friends Provident International's scheme is quite intense as we give the students the opportunity to get involved in a range of important projects happening in our business to provide the best experience possible.
"Four of the students will gain experience within the customer services department and the remaining two in HR. We know that the six successful candidates will rise to the challenges that lie ahead of them. We're delighted at how well they have fitted in and the enthusiasm they have demonstrated so far."
Placement student Imelda Toner said: "Places at Friends Provident International are always in demand so we were all really pleased to be selected.
"Friends Provident International stood out as a company offering some really interesting projects. That's what we're looking for. Spending eight months doing filing and photocopying won't give us the experience we need to get the careers we want. We know that graduate jobs are more competitive than ever and the work we do at Friends Provident International could give us the edge."
Friends Provident International also runs local placement schemes for students from secondary schools and the Isle of Man International Business School. To find out more telephone 01624 821212.
