Kohdemaa: Scotland Harjoittelujakso: 3.6.-20.8.2013 Harjoittelupaikka: The Sir Duncan Rice Library, the University of Aberdeen www: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/library/ Harjoitteluorganisaatio: University library with Special Collections, including rare books and archives. Haku: I read through old reports on our university website and came across a student who had done a placement at the Aberdeen University Library and Museums. I contacted the Library and inquired about placements. Although they did not have any permanent placement places, the helpful staff said they would ask if there was need for an intern in any of the departments and that way they found a place for me at the Special Collections. Rahoitus: Un-paid, but I received an Erasmus grant from the University of Oulu. Ohjaus: The Senior Rare Books Librarian was my main supervisor. Työtehtävät: At the Special Collections Centre, I helped in updating the library catalogue, fine sorting of archive material and small scale book conservation. I also assisted the Learning and Outreach team in organising Family Fun events and Summer School, and updated their blog. In Modern Collections, created a blog for the Teaching Resource Collection and made introductory podcasts about the collection. Arviointi: I found the placement very well planned and organised. I learned new organisational skills and how to use new computer programmes. The work community was very welcoming and supportive, but gave me enough independence in my own work as well. Erot: The Special Collections Centre was a great example of a close work community with excellent leadership. The hierarchy was quite transparent and flexible. I felt that I could always ask for help and that I was heard. Older staff was very helpful and respectful towards younger staff. Asunto: I rented a flat from my friend who was away for the summer. Hintataso: In average Scotland is probably close to Finland or a bit lower in living expenses. Aberdeen, however, is at least more expensive than Oulu. Perhaps closer to prices in southern Finland. Heating expenses can be pretty high in the winter time. Vapaa-aika: There are plenty of nice pubs and clubs in Aberdeen, and during term time there are many students around. In the summer the city is relatively quiet, but I had excellent work mates with whom I went to the cinema and did some country walks as well. Going to the pub with the whole team after work was also pretty common if there was a special occasion, or somebody just felt like it. Muuta: Asking after placements yourself can be useful because it allows you to tell what are your strengths and what you are interested in. My placement was organised based on my experiment, studies and interests and it was the best work experience ever! .