Application Development New Associate Review

Currently on a project working in the Technical Architecture Capability, designing and implementing client's existing internal programs into the cloud. I have taken ownership of areas of the project, working with my team members and individuals. I have been involved in meeting with our clients and always been given the opportunity to ask questions or suggest ideas.

With my current role, I have been able to learn a whole host of new skills, whilst building on my existing skills from 6th form. Accenture provides access to the learning platform Pluralsight and has so far already sponsored me through 1 cloud qualification, the next 2 coming soon. There is also the opportunity to shadow members of my team who are always happy to help.

Accenture is an amazing company to work for and has exceeded my expectations for an apprenticeship when it comes to my day-to-day tasks. I have been given the autonomy to work how suits me, everyone makes an effort to welcome you and even seniors managers are willing to give up time in their day to talk. My only criticism is the University side because I would rather be "in the field" but you'll get this at any Apprenticeship. I really enjoy my work at Accenture and would recommend it to anyone!

Given the COVID-19 pandemic, Accenture did struggle at the beginning (ensuring we had company laptops, enrollment at University, etc.). Hopefully, this will be addressed in years to come and lessons learned. The structure of each week is 1 day at University and 4 days working. Currently, my team hierarchy is very flat, and I work with a range of Career Levels each day for our project.

My current manager has a check-in with the Apprentices on our team each month to ensure we are all happy. You have a People lead who helps you develop your career at Accenture, checks in with you regularly to ensure you're progressing, and represents you at yearly performance reviews. If you are struggling at Accenture most are inclined to help where they can you just have to reach out!

With our current training provider, BPP, I've found that although you're reminded they will help to support you as best they can, it can be a bit lacking... For assignments, I've submitted drafts for so far, Feedback has been quite general (even the same between apprentices). As I've mentioned I prefer the work side of the Apprenticeship, but the Tutors do make the lectures engaging and enjoyful.

From the content of the modules we have completed so far, it does have a lot fo application to the job I do day-to-day. I've been able to complete coursework by using my day-to-day job as context and that in itself has pushed me to understand more than just at a theoretical level.

Weekly meetings for the Apprentices, Monthly Company Quizes, Escape Rooms, You get 3 days a year to spend volunteering, Lunch & Learns are hosted to optionally learn about new technologies. Currently, all of this has been virtual for us given the pandemic but either way has been enjoyable and a nice range of activities.

Yes

If you're interested in any element of Technology, Accenture almost always has you covered. Everyone I've met has been welcoming and not gatekeeping in the slightest. In my near 9 months at Accenture, I've been able to work on large client projects and have a substantial impact. Obviously, this comes at a cost, and you do have to put in the work outside of office hours to complete uni work and keep training, but it is 100% worth it in the long run.

Be yourself, and I can't stress that enough. Accenture wants a range of minds to match their broad range of capabilities. Be sure to have some practical experience under your belt - if you've made a website, robot, ran a business - mention it! At assessment, days be sure to take your time with the tasks and come prepared.