Technology Degree Apprentice Review

During university term time, I study Computer Science like a normal student. The only difference is I have to log my working hours and every week engagement sessions are run to give us insight into the business. These sessions are really useful and prepare you for time in industry, as well as providing you with valuable soft skills. These sessions can range from discussing lines of service, to topics such as the importance of networking. Every summer we work a 12 week placement in one of the business units. You're assigned a career coach and have all the right support networks. The time in industry is great experience, and being able to work in different teams allows you to decide what you enjoy working on.

As well as the technical skills learnt during university studies, I feel I've mostly learnt soft skills - networking, presenting etc. Although not a skill, the most valuable thing I've gained is industry insight. Before placement I had no idea what working in a technology team meant in terms of day to day operations, expectation and the way the company organises its resources. We have a few training weeks before placement starts to learn the required technical skills as well as having access to Pluralsight, a learning platform for all things tech related.

I really enjoy the programme. Although logging work hours and submitting evidence can feel laborious, it is worth it for the chance to work over the summer to gain experience. PwC offers so many experiences and opportunities to spring-board a career. They also treat employees well; I'm paid very well considering I only work in the Summer, and they offer many other core benefits to their apprentices (such as private health care).

The Programme is structured well. For example, the engagement sessions leading up to placement cover all the different lines of service that we may like to work in. The logging of work hours has been improved, as before an unnecessary amount of information was required. Overall, the course is timetabled nicely, and there's a 4 week period in late August to late September to have a Summer holiday!

Our employers are actively trying to support us. As well as a programme team we can reach out to, we've been assigned work buddies and have a career coach if we have any problems or need further support. There's also great benefits that support us in the event it is needed.

We have Tri-partite meetings to review our academic progress 3 times a year. These calls are short though. I've found the training platform Pluralsight - provided to us by PwC has been great to fill gaps in my knowledge. In general though, the support to achieve our grades is left to the University, who provide ample support.

The course has been somewhat relevant to my industry experience - I've found the Software Engineering and Team Project modules are particularly relevant, as it involves teamwork and organisation skills to develop software. Programming practice is always useful too. The training provided by PwC is most relevant to my placements however, as we learn to use the specific software we'll need for our work.

My work email inbox is inundated with emails from various people across the firm to get involved in activities. This may be line of service or business unit specific. There are also opprotunities to learn skills - these invites are sent out to most people across the firm. PwC also provide a budget for apprenticeships for events.

Yes

For all the above reasons. If deciding to go to university to study Computer Science, there is no reason not to consider a PwC apprenticeship. I live the life of a typical student with the benefits of a healthy salary, no student loan, other core benefits, and most importantly industry experience.

1. Prepare for the interview process - although the firm have a high intake, the course is very popular so it's definitely worth preparing a lot for the interview. It's always useful doing some research on the firm first so you get an idea of how they operate. 2. Don't get intimidated by the application process - it's worth the initial hurdle for the rewards afterwards. 3. Consider your personal brand - by this I mean present yourself in a professional manner. 4. Positive body language is key 5. Get involved and ensure everyone's opinions are heard in any team based activities 5. Apply!