Intern/Trainee TDA Review

My role on a day to day basis involves working in a team of software developers to create applications for the client. I use the programming that I have learnt in university to complete these. In any spare time that I have I undergo training to upskill myself in areas I'm unfamiliar in.

Yes - i am consistently developing my existing skills that I have gained from university by practicing my coding in different languages. I have also learnt new skills, for example, I recently completed training for the google cloud associate cloud engineer certification. I then sat my exam and was able to become google cloud certified,

I really enjoy the programme. I was concerned at first that I wouldnt have the traditional University lifestyle but this hasnt been the case at all. If anything I have been given a head start in my career, making new connections, building business experience and learning new skills and practices.

My programme is well structured. I like the fact that the work/placement time is completely separate to the studying time at University. There are some apprenticeships where you work 4 days a week and are in University one day a week but I would find this very distracting and feel under pressure. Whereas, when it is separate and split into semesters it is more beneficial.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. We have career coaches that help us with any questions or problems we may have. Similarly, we always receive emails and updates about the course and what is going to be happening next. Our employer also ensures we are putting our skills from university into practice/.

All the lectures at Queens university Belfast have been exceptional. I have really enjoyed the course and I felt like I have learnt ad experienced a lot - it has really prepared me for industry. Similarly, we receive email updates from the university about the course and any upcoming events that may be happening.

My qualification through my training provider has allowed me to excel in my role. I have learnt a lot from University and have been able to apply this to work which has allowed me to work on more challenging projects and I can use this experience to go back and apply it to my University work again.

Yes there are lots of extra curricular activities to get involved in at work. I had the opportunity to lead a social committee for the other apprentices in our work and organise events and socials in that. We also have lots of opportunity to go into the office and network with people

Yes

PwC is such a large company with so many sectors within it to explore. Our apprenticeship deliberately allowed us to rotate around these sectors to find what best suited us which I think was a really good idea. There are so many friendly people there from different backgrounds and experience to bounce off.

Definitely ensure that you have lots of experience and are passionate about the job role that you are applying for. Make sure to keep tabs on emails about assessment days and read instructions thoroughly about the application process. Overall, dont be nervous or worried - just be yourself and dont be afraid to ask questions!