Software Engineer Review

My role as a Software Engineer involves me designing, writing, and deploying applications and patch updates, based on the requirements of a large government client. This allows for me to learn lots of new languages, practices, and technologies, while benefitting from working collaboratively in a team. Daily calls take place to distribute tasks and work towards completion of tasks. Client facing discussion also occurs when necessary, in order to obtain more information, as well as to inform the client, about applications. As a Degree Apprentice, I learn about technologies, languages, and practices through online university lectures and tutorials. These occur outside of office hours, and so there is a distinction between university work and office work. Both work for Capgemini and University work go hand in hand; learning from both sources allows me to apply knowledge in both work for Capgemini, and university assignments and exams.

Prior to joining Capgemini, I had studied for A-Levels in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry; my knowledge of technology and coding was limited. However, since joining Capgemini, I have/am completing course modules for the degree aspect of the apprenticeship, through Aston University, which in turn acts as training for Capgemini work. Also, working in teams, and speaking to colleagues and clients, have allowed me to build upon professional skills, such as effective communication, leadership, and presentational skills.

I very much enjoy being a degree apprentice. I enjoy learning new technologies and languages, as well as building on professional skills that will assist me in all aspects of life. My colleagues, both within and outside my team, are very personable, understanding, and great to talk to both at work and outside of work. In addition, Capgemini's culture and 'Seven Core Values' fit with my values and culture, and so I feel comfortable and enjoy being part of a large community that share these values.

All colleagues that I have met make me feel welcome to be part of a great community. I have built a growing network both within and outside of Capgemini; all of those within this network recognise each other's skills, achievements, and future goals. I have good relationships with my team, managers, and other colleagues. Also, a clear progression path allows me to have targets to aim for in order to progress within Capgemini, and therefore increase my value over time.

Capgemini's Degree Apprenticeship has a clear structure; you begin with a week induction, where you learn about the company and the programme. This is followed by an 8 week training course (which is also the first university module you complete) where you are introduced to Java and SQL. Following this, you start full time work on a project, where you work with a team to deliver technology, support, or resources for clients. It is at this stage where university study and work occur simultaneously; work full time for Capgemini on weekdays, and studying for university out of office hours and at weekends. At all stages, you have support from both Capgemini and Aston University contacts, such as line managers, lecturers, and course directors. All exam dates are given in advance, so that you can plan your study leave and annual leave around exams and client facing work.

I receive lots of support from my training provider, Aston University. All lecturers are willing to help with queries, both content and module structure related. Support is accessible through Aston University's online learning portal 'Blackboard'. Although at times it can be quite difficult to navigate through Blackboard, the platform allows us to find out information, use resources to help our understanding of content, and contact teaching assistants and lecturers.

Capgemini are very good at providing support for any queries that I have. My line manager and project manager are both very welcoming to queries and questions, and are happy to give guidance and support. The HR team are always willing to help with HR related queries. Capgemini's internal system allows for easy access to finding solutions for commonly asked questions, as well as providing links and tools for all work related aspects, including time logging, expenses, and progression schemes.

Capgemini's package meets my costs. As a young adult, it can be difficult to cover living costs and travel costs, however the salary covers these costs well, and allows for some disposable income to use for social events, holidays, or to save up for the future. Due to the office being relatively close to where I live, daily travel costs are relatively low.

Capgemini holds many company events to take part in; I have taken part in several voluntary activities outside of work that have allowed me to meet lots of new people, share my experiences, and learn about other people's experiences. Capgemini values charity highly; there are many events that Capgemini take part in in order to raise money for charities, and increase awareness of charities. Capgemini also encourages training courses, and provides for these training courses in order to build on your skillset, and grow your network.

Yes

Capgemini's Degree Apprenticeships eliminates all the major negatives of doing a conventional degree, or going into full time employment straight after college/sixth form. Studying while working, without having any tuition fees, and having the certainty of a full time, well paid job, is a great platform to build your future upon. Being able to apply knowledge as soon as it has been taught allows you to learn quicker, and as a result progress at a fast rate.

The most important advice is to be yourself, and have a willingness to learn. Your experiences (both good and bad) are ones that can evidence that you will fit Capgemini and the Degree Apprenticeship programme. Being able to show an interest in Capgemini's Degree Apprenticeship, while being yourself, will aid you through the application process. Also, gaining work experience is valuable; having some experience on how the industry works will allow you to have a better understanding of Capgemini, and the work Capgemini does.