Business Analyst Review

As an IT business analyst, my day-to-day role revolves around bridging the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders. I am responsible for gathering and analyzing business requirements, identifying gaps and opportunities for improvement, and creating functional specifications. I work closely with cross-functional teams to design and implement technical solutions, test and validate systems, and provide ongoing support and maintenance. To succeed in my role, I must communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices, and continuously seek ways to optimize processes and systems for the organization. I take pride in my work and enjoy the challenge of finding innovative solutions that help the business achieve its goals.

During my IT apprenticeship, I have developed a range of skills that have been invaluable in my career development. Firstly, I have gained a deep understanding of computer systems, programming languages, and software development methodologies. I have also learned how to work with different operating systems, programming tools, and debugging techniques. Additionally, I have developed excellent communication and teamwork skills, which are essential in a collaborative environment. I have learned how to work effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, manage my time and prioritize tasks, and solve problems in a logical and efficient manner. Finally, I have gained an appreciation for the importance of continuous learning and professional development. The IT industry is constantly evolving, and I have learned how to stay up-to-date with new technologies and trends, and how to seek out opportunities for self-improvement. Overall, my IT apprenticeship has provided me with a solid foundation in both technical and soft skills, which will serve me well throughout my career.

I thoroughly enjoyed my IT apprenticeship and University experience. The IT apprenticeship allowed me to gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting while developing my technical and professional skills. It was great to work alongside experienced professionals who were passionate about their work and eager to help me learn and grow. Similarly, my University experience provided me with a rich and diverse learning environment, where I was exposed to different perspectives and ideas. The academic rigor and intellectual stimulation challenged me to think critically and creatively, while the social opportunities allowed me to make lifelong connections with like-minded individuals. Overall, I am grateful for the opportunities provided by my IT apprenticeship and University experience, and I feel well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The programme was well structured, with the University and workplace working side by side to provide me with the tools to complete both the qualification and my job. I had a workplace mentor who held weekly meetings and guided me through the apprenticeship, speaking as a former degree apprentice themselves

I received a lot of support from my workplace, as they helped give me the tools that I needed to be successful both in my role and in the University setting too, when I had topics relating to marketing at University, I was able to speak to a UK marketing lead in work and understand the topic from an expert

I received a lot of support from the university at times, but not always. I would like to say it depends on the lecturer and some are good whilst some are not good. The module handbooks provided do give you alot of the required detail though, so sometimes it is good to make assumptions from that

I feel as though the two (university and the workplace) go hand in hand and cover a lot of the same topics, the key difference being that one is on the job training whilst the other is odd the job training, the university gives you a nice other perspective though

Yes there are lots of extra curricular activities through the sports and social club at CGI, they fund a lot of different things for you to get involved in like weekly football and weekly basketball but also bigger things too like going into london to lots of themed events and bars

Yes

CGI is a very good workplace as an apprentice, you are given responsibility from day one, but the trade off is that you will be doing the same job as someone on three times as much money as you. It is definitely a steep learning curve but it sets you up for a great career

Make sure that you compose yourself honestly in the interview. Don't pretend to be somebody that you are not because that will only put you in the wrong area of the business if you are successful and then you won't be happy. If you are honest about your goals and show motivation you are likely to succeed