Technology Developer Review

As a degree apprentice in a technology division at Goldman Sachs, I am constantly learning the current projects that my team are creating or are involved in. I am given many a opportunity to participate both functionally and non-functionally. As well as being able to learn and work from a technical standpoint, I also learn and see the front-end business process, so that I can garner a larger scope of how technology impacts and helps the Firm generate revenue. My team is aware that I am here to learn, and the best form of learning is practically! My team are always on-hand to give me small projects to work on, that impacts the overall project, hence I feel like a valuable asset to the team as well.

I personally came into the Firm with a little technical knowledge, but I have programmed individually. However, coding in an industry setting is so much more different and so much more team-based. Everyone works on one problem, with the team being the essence of the solution, not an individual. I have improved technically, I have learnt a variety of testing methods and I have also improved my business logic overall. My softer skills, such as communication, presentation and intrapersonal skills have also improved-you don't just sit behind a computer here, you develop to become an all-rounded person with soft and hard skills!

The decision to become a degree apprentice was both life-changing, exciting and probably one of the best pathways to take in life! As well as being able to experience University, study a degree and learn the theoretical aspects of computer science, I can also practically integrate this into my work. The flat-structured and vibrant ambiance in the workplace, is both motivating and refreshing. The work culture is extremely warm, fast-paced and there's always something new to do and learn.

At Goldman Sachs the collective team environment ensures that everyone is valued. Everyone is always willing to help and everyone is a productive and valuable asset to the Firm overall. My team are always willing to help me whenever I need it, but they are also always willing to teach: everyone wants to see you improve and grow here! The managers are also very aware of your role, and not only is the work you produce important to them, but also your well-being.

This scheme is extremely organised. On Monday and Tuesday I attend Queen Mary University and for the remaining three days I work. One module even involves a work-based module whereby what we study at University directly correlates with what we do at work. The flat-structure here and team structure means that everyone's thoughts and ideas are valued and considered. The first few months, we also receive training sessions that help us integrate into the Goldman Sachs culture as well as having a full training and orientation week in our first week so that we adapt, learn and understand the scheme and the culture.

Goldman Sachs is partnered with Queen Mary University. Bi-weekly I have meeting with my personal adviser, who ensures that we are coping with simultaneously working and studying. If I have any problems, I can easily reach out to my personal adviser and they are extremely considerate and aware that we are degree apprentices.

At Goldman Sachs, we also have an amazing support system, with buddies, who are members of our team; mentors, who sit outside the team; and managers, who guide us from a career's standpoint. We also have a great HR team who set up training sessions in the first few months to help us integrate into the team as well as an orientation week in our first week so that we can get settled gradually into a new work environment. They also provide general well-being services. Regardless, everyone is supportive and willing to help, both from a career, social and well-being aspect.

Our salary is competitive. However, since our degree is paid for we are already advantaged in that we finish University with no student loans. At the end of these four years, we have a degree, with no debt attached, and four years work experience, with a salary. Salary aside, the opportunity in itself is extremely worthwhile!

Outside of work, there are many team events due to the high team-focus. Even though I have to study for University as well, I still have time to meet friends and do my own hobbies. Being based in Central London, there is also an advantage in that there is always something to do after work. Going to University also gives you the opportunity to be part of clubs and societies. The hours are also flexible and during exam season, the managers are aware that we will be studying.

Yes

In my first semester alone I have learnt so much! The theory at University and the practicalities at work compliment eachother extremely well. Not only is a four year work experience at a prestigious London Firm and a BSc from a Russell Group University two wonderful lines to put on a CV, but the experience gained, the skills developed and the amount learnt is a reason alone to go. Plus, an added incentive is no student loans and a paid salary!

The deadline to apply is March 18th, and the hiring process follows an online interview and, upon passing such, a few onsite-interviews. As long as you have a passion and interest in technology and/or business, and show your passion and enthusiasm the hiring process will be smooth. As cliched as it may sound, do be yourself: Goldman Sachs appreciates integrity, determination and innovation!