Thursday 23 May we welcomed Computing and IT students to share their experience undertaking a placement while completing their OU studies. We were also joined by Tim Reid, VP of Software Engineering at SpotX and Sean Gallagher, Careers Consultant for Ireland.
15 Computing and IT students attended the event along with members of staff.
The evening kicked off with pizza and informal networking. Sarah Nicol, who is completing a 12-month placement with Allstate alongside her Computing and IT degree shared her exciting journey transitioning from a career in archaeology to Java Development. Sarah highlighted the importance of networking through tech meet-ups to connect with IT professionals.
Dermot Rice, Computing and IT with Maths degree student spoke of his experience moving from Barista to undertaking a 6-week Software Testing placement alongside his studies. On completion Dermot was offered a permanent role. He spoke of his enjoyment working in software testing and how his OU studies have supported him in his role.
A Q and A session was held with Tim Reid, VP of Software Engineering at SpotX , who provided valuable advice for breaking into and working in the industry. Tim also said: “Our experience of hiring two OU students has been very positive. Both students joined us for an internship while studying and were then hired as full-time employees. We have found both to be technically competent and very quick to pick up new skills. Both have brought a level of maturity, resiliency and motivation beyond what is typical in recent graduates. They have both been quick to assume responsibility and take ownership for the tasks that they have been assigned.”
Sean Gallagher, Careers Consultant for Ireland showcased the full range of resources and support on offer from the Careers and Employability Service to help students achieve their career goals.
Computing and IT student Brendan Berne said: “The event was very insightful. It really helped to ease my concerns on the journey to working in the industry.”