Data Scientist Review

- Data Scientist - Daily tasks involve developing SQL queries to obtain the desired data required from our own data lake - Daily interactions include discussing with the team about how we can develop more streamlined queries to reduce the strain on the lake. Also involves discussing with colleagues all over the bank about whether any of their processes can be automated through the use of SQL

I have been able to develop an advanced understanding of SQL and have also been able to improve my communication skills by interacting with colleagues in the bank. I have been able to get involved on internal and external SQL courses through experienced colleagues in data innovation teams and through external companies like Coursera.

The work is enjoyable and also has a real world impact. Being able to do work which has actual value is a huge motivation boost. The culture of Santander is extremely positive and I always feel comfortable going to anyone with questions. The programme has exceeded my expectations as I have been able to work with extremely experienced professionals and have been trusted with my own projects. I enjoy the work I do and always look forward to coming in and getting it done.

Whenever I complete a piece of work my manager recognises this and thanks me for it. I feel like an integral member of the team and am not treated any differently than my other colleagues. I have been able to work on group projects and have been trusted with my own my own pieces of work within this.

The induction to the program was clear and the whole four and a half years was mapped to give us an idea of what we would be doing. The training I have received so far has been extremely positive and I have been able to carry this out during work hours. There is always support should you need it (we are all allocated an apprentice manager who is on hand to help us out). There is a good mix of work and study as we are allocated the Friday during the week to do our Uni work. The program has a clear structure and lectures are always on the same few days at the same time each week.

Training provider is always there if you have any questions. Throughout the teaching of the module the lecturers are always happy to answer any questions and usually prepare something for the week after. Communication between the lecturers and students can deteriorate after the lectures have finished which can lead to some confusion with the assessments.

I have had positive experiences in the past when discussing certain modules with my manager. I have not yet had to call on my Apprentice Manager for help with any Assessments as of yet but know that I would be able to receive the help if I was to approach them. Santander made sure we had an Apprentice from the previous cohort dedicated to us so that we can ask them any questions if we need to.

The salary more than covers my outgoings and means I can start to save money. My travel costs are extremely small as I live within a few minutes of the workplace. My daily costs and social costs are also very low and I feel more than comfortable to continue with my lifestyle on this salary.

There are a huge amount of events outside of work, these are all advertised on our staff intranet homepage. I have been able to volunteer in my local community with the activities ranging from decorating a nursery in time for Christmas to delivering a talk to a group of elderly people on how to avoid fraud and scams. I am also part of a Football team within Santander which I find is a great way to stay fit but to also socialise with colleagues from around the bank.

Yes

The Agile culture I have been exposed to in Santander has been a huge positive and has enabled me to live a healthy work-life balance. I feel supported with the programme itself and also with the development of my career. I am treated like any other colleague and am trusted with important tasks.

The application process while it may seem daunting is very straight forward so don't panic. The best thing to do is to prepare for the different stages. Before partaking in the phone interview for example it would be a good idea to have a look on the Santander website to see what sort of behaviours and skills they are looking for. It is also a good idea to do some background research on the banking industry itself and to keep up to date with banks in the news (I was asked what sort of impact Brexit would have on Santander). For assessment days the best thing you can do is be yourself. Try to push yourself and get involved in conversations and once again have answers prepared to the sort of questions you'd expect to be asked at an interview. Throughout the assessment centre always stay sharp even when moving from room to room , keep a smile on your face and be polite as you never know if someone is watching you. Make sure to arrive nice and early as you want to make a good first impression.