Uptree

Fisola, a talented, gap year student with an interest in coding & web development, recently attended IBM 's Consulting & Technology work experience day. Here she shares her experience of meeting tech professionals and finding out more about the range of career opportunities with IBM.

Why did you apply for the IBM work experience day?

For a lot of us, especially students, it feels like the world has stopped but really it has just gone online. IBM hosted a consulting and tech virtual insight day giving us the opportunity to learn about the company and steps they can take to start a career with IBM.

Before my work experience day I prepared some questions for the panel and looked into IBM opportunities such as their Futures 12 Month Placement Scheme .

The day ran smoothly and despite being on Zoom it felt very interactive with the opportunity to hear from the panel and ask questions.

What was your favourite part of the session?

My favourite part of the day was the panel discussion. It was very insightful to listen to the journey of people who have taken the apprentice programme and see how it has built the foundations for their career in tech. The panel discussion made the idea of working at a big technology firm more achievable and outlined how you can achieve that.

Another thing that was very reassuring to hear was you don’t specifically need a computer science degree to work in IBM - not only are there many sectors but there are opportunities to learn whilst working (eg. a degree-apprenticeship) which Yazi spoke about. She preferred this experience to university and liked the flexibility it offered her. The practicality of the course enabled her to solidify her skills and gain experience that employers desire.

Do you have any advice for students in your position?

Take your view of a company outside its industry. IBM is not just a tech company. - Kate Ross

When considering even just applying for insight days we may fall into the trap of thinking we don’t know enough about the industry or alternatively we may stereotype what the industry is about. Kate Ross mentioned something really important about approaching a company open-mindedly which I have quoted above.

It is important to think of what you want from the company as well as what you can offer. IBM in particular has an expanse of sectors that may interest you such as consulting, marketing, business etc. There are opportunities to find your feet in an industry in a gap year programme or embark on a degree apprenticeship which is a hybrid of learning and hands on experience.

Conclusion

This opportunity would not have been possible without the help of Uptree which offers exciting opportunities from many different industries. I would highly advise anyone interested in tech or coding to immerse yourself in the industry by attending events such as this and also gathering together with your peers. Thankfully coding is something we can practise collaboratively and online so now is the best time to get involved!

Uptree thanks Fisola for her insights and advice on coding and tech careers and we wish her all the best as she starts university this September!