Technology Degree Apprentice Review

In my current role, I work as part of a team that is implementing telephony infrastructure for a major investment bank. On a day-to-day basis, my duties include: - Design of various components within a proposed solution - Design write up - Writing out testing scripts and testing in the development environment - Microsoft Azure deployments and testing - Project management - Assisting various teams across whole project to grasp understanding of the "bigger picture"

Since joining Accenture, I've developed enormously. My knowledge about technology and the business world, as well as IT in general has increased significantly. This definitely increased my passion for the industry, as well as made me a well rounded young-professional that has been exposed to various sectors of IT (Cloud Migration, Digital Workplace, Infrastructure Implementation), in various industries. Existing skills that I developed are: - Much higher proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite - Soft skills - Ability to make and maintain relations in personal and professional life - Team Management New skills that I've picked up in my current role majorly revolve around common practices of writing up a design document to propose a solution, proficiency in Microsoft Azure, knowledge on wider tools from Microsoft (Power BI, Project, Visio), as well as general understanding of products from various vendors, and how to configure them. From previous roles, I've gained a huge insight on project management in the business environment, how technology can improve business practices and the importance of Digital Workplace.

I absolutely love the programme. I believe this degree apprenticeship allows young people to explore the industry they're looking to get into, giving them deep insight into the reality that the business world is. Additionally, we get to work with the brightest minds in the industry and that's what makes this experience very enjoyable. Learning from professionals who have been working in this industry for a long time has increased my interest in technology, as well as allowed me to learn concepts much better. Being an ex-university student, who left traditional Bachelor studies to pursue a degree apprenticeship - I can easily say that my developed knowledge from a professional standpoint is greater than principles I've learnt through traditional studies, which makes it all the more enjoyable.

The programme is well organised, with enough time given for both - work and study responsibilities. Apprentices are provided a dedicated day to visit their training providers, and study as normal university students would. The support structure from a University and Company perspective is great, and allows any questions you might have to be answered.

Enormous amounts. Prior to joining Accenture, I had a habit of not asking questions and attempting to learn by myself. This has significantly changed, where now - any questions I may have, I ask. My employer was the major influence behind that, as everyone is extremely supportive and happy to help. There has yet been a time where any of my queries have not been answered. You will always be helped, or guided to someone who is able to assist you. This is probably the most beneficial thing for me as an apprentice, as being new to the industry, questions always rise. Having this is hugely beneficial.

Support for the training received in university is exactly as the same as you would receive as a normal student. You're able to get help in classes through your dedicated study day, as well as email or phone with the lecturers or programme leads. Finishing my 2nd year, I'm confident enough to say that support provided to me was sufficient enough to finish my qualifications to a high level.

I feel like there's a benefit in understanding fundamental principles behind practices in my role, which comes majorly from the training provider. Working in the industry, you learn the practical side a lot quicker than the theoretical side. Coming back to the topics you use in day-to-day life in your role from a theoretical perspective is extremely helpful in grasping the whole concept.

Within Accenture, there's a HUGE amount of extra-curricular activities. From constant event planning to a wide array of societies (these range from nearly any sport you can think of to wine tasting, book club, cultural groups, etc), you will have the opportunity to find new hobbies, or develop on your existing interests while networking with your colleagues.

Yes

Accenture gives you a huge platform to develop from. Being a huge company, you're exposed to various industries and you have the chance to work with some of the biggest companies globally. Additionally, constantly provided training allows you to boost your career internally, or externally. The biggest reason why I would recommend Accenture to anyone is the welcoming and helpful community and working culture which I personally, really enjoy.

The biggest advice I can give to anyone is to be open minded and passionate about the technology industry. In Accenture, you will get to work with a lot of different technologies and tackle different problems for different clients. Having an open mind will allow you to find more opportunities, which will lead to finding what you enjoy most, thus growing your passion.