Developer Review

I was able to have two roles during my placement. 1) For the first 6 months I worked as a front-end web developer, helping with the development on components for a web app created for clients and IBMers alike. I was working as part of a scrum team, utilising AGILE methodologies which included designers and developers. I was able to really progress and develop my development skills whilst on this project, as someone who wasn't sure if development was for them, this project made me realise how much I enjoyed it. On a day to day basis I would work on the development of components using ReactJS, a front end javascript framework. 2) My second role for the final 6 months of my placement was as a Salesforce Developer. I was part of a global scrum team on this client facing project. Once again using AGILE, I was helping with various configuration and development tasks on a day to day basis. My team were based in slovakia, despite this, the communication between the team and the working relationships we were able to create with the clients was fantastic.

I have achieved my Platform Developer and Administrator certifications I have improved my front end development skills with ReactJS I have improved my backend development skills with NodeJS I have learnt how to develop on Salesforce, this includes configuration tasks as well as the development of custom components I have developed my communication, teamworking, adaptability and leadership skills on my placement.

This placement year has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life, and I never thought I'd be saying that about a year at work! I have worked with some amazing people who have taught me so much. I was fortunate enough to be in some amazing teams. The company culture on the account I was placed was beyond expectation. There was this sense of togetherness, people were always willing to help each other. The ways of working and working environment were fantastic and really contributed to how much I enjoyed my year. IBM exceeded my expectations.

I felt very valued. I was immediately tasked with real work, work that was making a different. People acknowledge achievements which is fantastic. On all of my projects and roles, I was doing the same standard of work as everyone else. IBM gives you real work to do, work that makes a difference, you feel valued here and a part of something special.

My program was fantastically structured. I had ample amount of time to learn and always had support from my peers. I could take time to study when required which was vital for me achieving my certifications. There are always people to talk to at IBM, you are assigned an 'Early Professionals' manager who are always there for additional help/support when needed. Using AGILE methodologies, the task delegation was always ample and I was always kept busy on a range of activities, ensuring I was always learning and trying new things.

My training provider was someone I could always rely on. When I had issues outside of my project work they were always available, even if they weren't working on the day. She was a fantastic person to go to for advice, be it general or IBM related.

The support I received from IBM was amazing. My managers and team were always there to help me. Whenever I had questions, people always made time to help and talk me through things, I was never thrown to the side. I was valued and this is what makes IBM truly amazing. Getting support was always very easy and never a daunting task.

Considering I was living at home, the salary was fine and average for an intern role. The location of my base location was Waterloo which meant travel was expensive, however, this was easily covered in the salary.

The great thing about IBM is that they always have something going on. I was able to be a photographer at an event at IBM, which is something I love to do as a hobby. The account I was on were constantly organising sports events. There were also many socials which provided a great opportunity for networking and having a great time! When I wasn't working during work hours there were plenty of opportunities to further you knowledge by earning badges!

Yes

At IBM you are valued. IBM shows faith in you, they push you to learn and challenge yourself, you are able to make a difference by doing real work. At IBM you feel like you are part of something big, you are able to progress on many different levels. My year at IBM has been amazing, I have met amazing people, learnt so much and enjoyed every single moment of this year.

The application process is pretty standard: Online application, online tests, assessment centre and phone interview. My advice for all of these is: Be yourself and don't doubt what you are capable of. I have come to realise through my time here, you can do anything. If you have a hunger to learn and succeed then you will be able to achieve greatness and nothing can stop you.