What is it like living in Lynchburg?
Lynchburg is your typical small town. For anyone looking for a quiet area to live, this place is perfect. The town is surrounded by mountains and boasts a picturesque landscape that would give Whitman something to write about. There are many trails for hiking and biking, and multiple parks where you can sit and read. There are also a good variety of restaurants and retail stores for people that love shopping and eating out. Lynchburg also has one of the best Dollar Theaters that I've seen: always a good selection of movies for a low price.

What drew you to AREVA NP Inc.?
In one word: design. Other companies only offered process-related jobs. I was looking for a job that would allow me to exercise my own creativity to solve problems. AREVA NP Inc. was the perfect fit.

What does a typical day consist of?
The work that I do varies from day to day. My job as a co-op permits me to assist the engineers in my division as required. This includes helping them by detailing drawings, putting together some of the simple components that are in a design, and solving problems pertaining to a smaller design project. I enjoy work that is challenging and different from day to day, and AREVA NP Inc. offers that.

What does AREVA NP Inc. offer that other companies cannot?
Friendliness and approachable work associates. Most people here are very approachable and willing to help out new employees with problems and questions. From tasks as simple as how to use the phone to tasks as complicated as tool design, there has always been someone to answer questions and help solve daily hang-ups. Simple things like that really make a difference.

What was your biggest surprise at AREVA NP Inc.?
Up-to-date technology. AREVA NP Inc. believes in supplying their employees with the most up-to-date software and computer technology. I have had experience with companies using out of date software and peripheries, and it has often hindered my ability to do a job well. AREVA NP Inc. believes in giving their people the best.

What is the greatest opportunity you've been given as
an AREVA NP Inc. employee?
Responsibility. Many companies do not give their co-ops high-level projects during their work terms. However, at AREVA NP Inc. I was not placed in a position designing spreadsheets or organizing databases for engineers. Instead, I was actually assigned design work. I am able to see the results of my effort, and that makes a big difference.

Why would you recommend AREVA NP Inc. to others
as a place of employment?
Anyone that enjoys challenges and the ability to work with some of the most knowledgeable engineers in the nuclear field will find AREVA NP Inc. a great place to work. I personally have enjoyed my stay here with the company and have learned much about myself and nuclear technology.

What kinds of team building events are offered?
AREVA NP Inc. is very personal. The executive board and CEO took the time to talk to new hires and co-ops about their jobs and life. There are very few large companies that have approachable and down-to-earth executives like AREVA NP Inc. That was a grand gesture of acceptance into the AREVA NP Inc. team.