Software Developer Review

I am an apprentice software developer. My day to day basis involves partaking in a scrum meeting every day to discuss progress made as well as future tasks that I will be completing. My daily responsibilities include taking tickets of tasks and completing them to the best of my ability to help develop an application.

I have learnt so many new skills as part of my apprenticeship, before my time at IBM I was very new to the corporate world as well as developing, so throughout my time I have learnt many different languages, as well as other interpersonal skills required to work on a team.

I enjoy my work aspect of the programme thoroughly as I get to work on real life applications, with teams of wonderful people and I learn so much. However my education side of the equation is less enjoyable, as the course I am on seems less than organised with poor quality modules.

My programme is very well structured whilst at work, but the structure seems to drop off when considering university work. With poor scheduling and organisation of modules and exams which has thrown me and many other apprentices off a bit. From being told we had no exams to suddenly having exams in a few weeks.

I, along with any other apprentice you will ask, receives a truly amazing amount of support from my employer, with foundation managers there at all times to answer any queries or concerns you may have. As well as your foundation manager, anyone within the company will be willing to help you.

The first semester I received a lot of support from my university, however as previously mentioned, that support has seemed to disappear into my second semester, with myself and many apprentices trying to find people to discuss our questions with, to no avail. However for the most part you are well supported.

My qualification has proven to be slightly useful in my role, however many of the modules focus more on writing essays and learning about businesses, which does not apply or impact my role as a software developer as I am never required to do such actions in my day to day role.

There are hundreds of extra-curricular activities to get involved in at my work, with thousands channels and group chats dedicated to providing social activities as well as sports teams for you to get involved with. I am a part of many slack channels where events are organised for us, as employees, to enjoy.

Yes

It is an absolutely sensational company to work for, with a massive presence in the IT sector. As well as this the opportunities within IBM are incredible, with hundreds of roles available to you no matter your experience or current job title. The support you receive from managers and peers once here is incredible.

Make sure to research IBM and their values, knowing everything you can about the company will prove you want to work for us. Be yourself, this company wants to hire people that are passionate about not just their work, but also themselves. As well as these, be confident in yourself.