Application Support Review

My role is as a member of the Application Support team of a large client. It involves investigating erroneous activities on customer accounts, data problems as well as problems with the code that is identified by users. I work as part of a smaller team within the wider App Support team which specialises in minor changes to the system.

I had a limited skill set before I joined Accenture. Since then I have learnt many skills through my day job, my uni degree and other training courses that I have been on. These skills include technical skills (such as new programming languages) as well as softer skills such as teamwork and communication

I thoroughly enjoy my programme. It has allowed me to develop as a person as well as a technology professional. I have met people who I will probably remain friends for life. It has also given me the opportunity to gain a degree in computer science without occurring the costs associated with going to university

I feel incredibly valued by Accenture. They invest in many things that benefit my health and wellbeing - such as offering a gym subsidy and providing free health check ups with BUPA. They also actively encourage having a good work/life balance by offering flexible working hours and organising events for employees to socialise at and meet new people

My programme is very organised. All new apprentices go through an eight week training to get them established with the basics of programming and several different programming languages. Then you are placed in a role that is suited to your skill set and then offered constant support as and when you need it. They are also good at allowing you enough time to complete your university work.

There is constant support available from within Accenture. Likewise, at the University of Sunderland the lecturers are contactable any time through the week. We have 1 day a week physically in university where we are in lectures and tutorials all day, giving us contact time with our lecturers to get help or assistance with assignments.

The people who organise the apprentices are never more than an email or Skype message away. They host monthly 'open door' sessions where you can go and discuss anything you like confidentially and they will offer as much support as they reasonably can. Within my team, my manager always help out whenever I need it and also points me in the direction of anyone else who may be able to help

My salary comfortably covers all of my living costs. I don't pay any rent or housing costs. I have to travel through the Tyne Tunnel to get to and from work, which costs £1.53 a journey. These costs are not covered by Accenture but are reasonable enough to pay. My salary allows me to live comfortably with little budgeting required. It also allows me to save up a decent amount of money.

There are many side of desk activities that you can do. Employees are actively encouraged to get involved in these activities which I do. My manager is very supportive of getting involved with these activities and allows me to take time out of the day to perform tasks needed for these activities

Yes

It is the best of all worlds. A degree paid for whilst getting work experience - many people only usually get one or the other.

Be confident. Be prepared for the video interview as it can be nerve wracking and prepare as fully as you can for the assessmentcentre