Data Science Apprentice Review

by Unilever

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.4/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I work on a large variety of programming projects, involving python + pandas + rdkit, as well as R + tidyverse, such as creating data analysis packages for R, programming AI/LLMs to analyse freetext responses, and using rdkit + industry standard biochem models to create dashboards for molecule interactions. I also create and present presentations on the projects I am working on.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learnt many new skills from social skills like networking and team collaboration to technical skills like git, python, R, Pipeline Pilot, etc...

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I greatly enjoy the programme as the variety of projects available to work on allows me to follow what I'm personally interested in while still creating useful programmes.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

the structure is clearly communicated and organised, information about the programme is available at all times through a couple websites.

8/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

they allow 20% of the week to be spent on the uni projects/course, and consistently check up with me on if I need more time to keep up with uni.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

they provide enough resources and a clear structure to follow at your own pace. The work is mostly course work, and details are given well ahead of the deadline.

7/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

the course is very applicable to my job role, and often covers techniques and technologies I use every day, however I typically find my job projects to be much more advanced than my uni projects.

6/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There are many social events and after work sporting activities, from badminton to climbing to board games and many more.

9/10

9a. Would you recommend Unilever to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

the work culture is relaxed yet productive, and the work itself is interesting and impactful. As well as starting work in such a large company allows you to be exposed to an expanse of workplace events and projects.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Unilever?

every area of Unilever is unique from the rest, research the particular part of the company you're applying to and focus on the practical work you can contribute.