Data Science Degree Apprentice Review

My role is to help people make the most of the data they have access to so they can make informed business decisions and ensure they collect the data in a structured and efficient way. This involves working with many different teams to create visualisations, reports, apps and programming codes.

From this experience I have learnt many new skills including: how to use Power Bi and Power Apps, how to code within in Python and R, and how to interact with others in a work environment that is productive but also friendly. Furthermore, I have developed my research and Excel skills.

I find my day-to-day role in the company very enjoyable. There is always something new to learn and flexibility to take on projects which you are most interested in. There is also a wide range of different people from different cultures to interact with and a positive, encouraging work atmosphere.

The structure of my work for the company is well thought out. Starting with learning and smaller projects with assistance from a mentor then moving on to more complex tasks. However, the structure of the university course is less good with some modules in an illogical order and changes not always being communicated well.

I receive a large amount of support from my employer. Not only for work tasks but also well being. I receive support from my line manager, a mentor, an apprentice group and other employees. Whenever I am stuck with something there will be many people willing and able to help.

There is one day a week of lectures from the training provider. These cover the content which we will be assessed on to receive the qualification. Some of the lectures are more useful than others with not all being well taught. The university puts on sessions for asking for help but sometimes questions aren't answered to a suitable degree.

While the content taught by the training provider doesn't fully line up with what I do in my role, there is a lot of learning that I can take from it to improve practices. Having a wide range of knowledge from this course will also expand my opportunities for future roles and projects.

There are opportunities to join groups which organise events and online sessions. Aimed to help you meet others and improve well being. There is also some charity runs which take place throughout the year. Individual teams also put on events such as team meals, team work activities and nights out.

Yes

Unilever is a great place to work with an enthusiastic and friendly environment. There is a wide range of different areas you can work in and projects to take on so there is lots to learn and variety in every day. You work with people from all around the world so will be lots of different types of people to speak to and learn from.

Talk about how working somewhere with people from many different locations and walks of life will help you learn and grow as a person. Don't forget to mention passions that are not work related as Unilever encourages a healthy balance of enthusiasm for work projects and personal activities. There is also a strong priority to making the business more sustainable so having a passion for the environment will be beneficial.