Software Developer Review

My role is as a software developer. This involves working on projects and completing development tasks, such as programming/scripting, building environments and producing documentation. I interact with colleagues in different roles such as project managers, architects, testers, networkers. This enables me to fulfil all parts of my role and also learn about the other areas of the business. Aside from my day-to-day role, I also participate in additional tasks such as developing and managing a SharePoint webpage for the business.

I have developed my skills in many technologies since joining. This includes furthering and practicing skills in technologies like C# and learning new technologies like Linux and PowerShell. This is also accompanied by my apprenticeship training, in which I am working towards a degree. So far the degree training has tough me a lot about subjects like, system design, academic studies, information security and business skills.

Despite the high work load of working towards a degree on top of full-time work, I highly enjoy the whole programme and the challenge that it brings. I have found that working in my role has been very rewarding as I have been able to make an impact almost instantly. The apprenticeship training can be hard work and sometimes stressful but overall I have been satisfied with what it has had to offer. Both the training and role have differed from my expectations, my role has directed me towards using different technologies to what I initially expected to be using. This has been a pleasant surprise as I have had the option to learn new technologies. I expected my degree course to take more of a technical approach than it has, instead I have worked on a lot of business focussed modules, however, I understand that these are still important aspects for me to learn about.

I think that Fujitsu values me and its other apprentices highly. We are often offered many opportunities and there are platforms in place which help us to transition into the workplace.

My apprenticeship programme is structured quite well. This is assisted by our apprenticeship academy board and objectives we have to fulfil. This ensures that we are progressing with our training and are completing our role as an apprentice. Additionally, my programme begun with an apprentice induction and also offers lots of help with training and balancing work with university work. Lastly, I also attend regular mentor meetings which has greatly helped with my transition into the workplace and onto the apprenticeship programme.

I have lots of opportunity to gain help from my lecturers at university. This can be during lectures and seminars or via email. They also provide lots of opportunity for feedback.

My employer does a lot to support me in my role and in my training. This is through methods like line managers and mentor meetings, or through contacting HR. There is many different tools which I can use that offer me multiple kinds of support.

Currently my salary meets my costs perfectly. With additional benefits like being able to expense my extra travel to university.

There are many responsible business and marketing events which I have been offered the opportunity to get involved with. There are lots of opportunities involving the local community. Additionally, within the graduate and apprentice community I am a part of, I have been able to attend social events. These have included activities like, bowling, ice skating and go karting, along with restaurant meals.

Yes

Because the programmes they offer, especially the degree apprenticeships, are really good and one of, if not the best option for higher education. Also, working at Fujitsu has been the perfect introduction into the business and IT world and I don't think you could get the same benefits and support at other companies.

Try to be confident in any video interviews and assessment centres you may do, and make sure you perform as a good team member in group activities. Also, have a goal in mind of what you want to do and it is beneficial to have some experience before coming into a role. As a new joiner it is important not to be too overwhelmed as it can be quite scary when starting your first big job.