IT Graduate Review

On a work day I typically work from 8 to 4 or 9 to 5. I am working with Project and Programme managers on a critical project so I attend a daily leadership team catch-up. Weekly I run other calls such as change request and RAID review sessions to help the pm's manage the project. I really enjoy my current role.

I have developed my listening, note taking and leading skills. I have become stronger when it comes to using my maths and excel skills as I have been responsible for managing a projects forecast and budget. My communication skills are continuously improving as I speak to many senior people, stakeholders and even external consultants via email, MS Teams messages and on calls.

I really enjoy this programme. I am extremely happy with how the work side of the programme is going and I look forward to being involved in more things and expanding my opportunities. I love that I am able to document my achievements in projects for the apprenticeship side of the programme.

The university side of the programme is very well organised and planned and follows a reasonable structure that seems to work. The work side of the programme is not as well organised generally, however, I personally have gotten lucky with the management I have been put under so this does not affect me as much as it maybe does others on the programme.

I believe I have got lucky with the management I was put under so I have received many opportunities for tasks that I can document for my apprenticeship projects. They are also very understanding if I need time out of my work time to focus on university work when I have many assignment deadlines or exams. I am happy with the support I have received so far.

MMU are very supportive. They provide many materials for help and guide us as well as making themselves available to answer questions over email or teams. The skills coaches also make us aware of other support such as study skills materials / courses, mental health resources or wellbeing information and support within the university.

The core modules encouraged us to look more into our companies however was not massively related in content or helpful. I have found the specialist modules to be more closely related and helpful. Lastly, the need to complete 2 projects to meet the knowledge, skills and behaviours motivate us to ensure we are involved in more at work.

Yes, my employer has social events which I love to attend. They have had an unstoppable event which was great. I learned more about the company and enjoyed networking with colleagues. They have had a movie night with food and refreshments. I have also attended socials for Christmas and graduate socials.

Yes

Bupa has great values that I truly see within all of the colleagues. I feel understood and supported by all the managers I work with. I am early into my career and new to Bupa but I have been trusted and encouraged to take on responsibilities I'd never thought I'd have this early on which feels like a great achievement.

I have been involved in representing Bupa at a Careers fair at MMU so I have met many students and given them advice on applying and interviews. My main tips for the interview stage were to not be reserved when talking about the job you currently do or have done in the past even if they are not related as the interviewers like to hear people speak about what they know about, what they enjoyed and what they have learnt along the way. The next bit of advice was the find the panel on LinkedIn following the interview to ensure your making connections that could benefit you in the future.