Programming Assistant Review

My role involves the development of highly technical engineering software within the Oasys Suite. Focus is placed on the PRIMER pre-processing tool, which is used for LS-DYNA model setup and editing. On a day-to-day basis, work is carried out on designing, implementing, and maintaining features to improve the user experience and support complex engineering workflows. Collaboration with other developers and engineers is regularly conducted to ensure product quality and relevance to user needs.

Many new skills have been learned, and existing ones have been further developed. Proficiency has been gained in several programming languages, including JavaScript, Python, and C. Familiarity with core development tools and practices has also been strengthened through daily hands-on experience.

The work itself has been greatly enjoyed, particularly the opportunity to engage in real-world software development. However, the academic side of the programme has often been experienced as frustrating. At times, tasks have felt unnecessarily complex or poorly structured, which has added avoidable stress to the experience.

The programme has been experienced as poorly organised, with frequent issues in communication, unclear expectations, and a lack of consistent structure. Greater support and coordination would have significantly improved the overall experience.

A high level of support has been received from the employer. As the first apprentice, many processes had to be navigated without prior guidance, but this was met with understanding and consideration. Efforts were consistently made to provide help and adapt to any challenges faced.

Support from the training provider has been perceived as limited. Guidance has often been unclear, and responses to difficulties have frequently felt punitive rather than constructive. Based on this experience, the training provider would not be recommended to others.

The qualification has provided limited value in improving performance within the role. Most modules have felt outdated, with content that appears to be based on material from the early 2000s. Very few lectures have been perceived as useful or relevant. The main benefit has been the assignments, which offered opportunities to demonstrate existing skills rather than develop new ones.

A positive social dynamic has been maintained at work. While the post-COVID shift to hybrid working has changed the atmosphere slightly, a good balance has been achieved. Time spent in the office is often enjoyable and social, with informal gatherings—sometimes including drinks—taking place after work.

Yes

Arup would be recommended based on personal experience. A high level of patience and kindness has been shown throughout my time here. The work has felt meaningful, and a great team environment has been experienced, making each day enjoyable and worthwhile.

Arup is a big company with lots of different engineering specialities, so some understanding of physics and engineering is expected—even if you’re joining as a software engineer. Coming from a software background myself, without a traditional mechanical engineering degree, it was really helpful to watch YouTube channels like 3Blue1Brown, Veritasium, and Astrum. They explain technical topics in a clear and engaging way, and that made it easier to understand the kind of work being done here.