Summer Intern Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my 8 week placement. It gave me an insight into many different avenues of Forensic Technology Solutions and helped me gain a knowledge of various software used within the industry. I has helped me gain some direction for my future after university and helped me realise, not only what I am interested in, but also helped me rule out some roles that I thought I was interested in, making me better prepared for my future choices.

Whilst working on projects, I felt very valued by my colleagues and project managers. My manager was very appreciate when I carried out tasks, especially those in which I was able to carry out independently without supervision. My peers were also very appreciative as we work in quite a collaborate space meaning that teamwork is key.

My project manager was very supportive and gave me great guidance whilst carrying out my tasks. She was always very accommodating when I needed to ask questions and always made time for me. The helpful guidance when learning new things meant that I was then able to work independently and further improve my knowledge.

I joined the team during a quiet period at the beginning so there wasn't a lot for me to do except shadowing, however it soon picked up and I was put on active projects. When I did have downtime between projects/tasks I was able to do some independent learning online using tutorials.

At the beginning of my placement I did a lot of shadowing, however once I was put on a project I was working collaboratively with the project manager and within a few days I was working independently and communicating with clients. After a week of being on the project I was teaching a new business placement how to use the software and carry out tasks.

The skills I developed during my placement will definitely help me secure a future job in relation to my degree. Although I used a variety of software and tools during my time here, a lot of it does not directly relate to my degree however it does relate to career paths that I may follow after university.

The office had quite a relaxed and laid back atmosphere. Everyone was there to get their work done however we had a good laugh throughout the day. Social events were very common too; whether it be grabbing a few drinks on a Friday or team BBQs. I have honestly made friends for life in this department and I will surely miss them when I leave.

Due to the variety of work that comes into the office and the way in which projects come in, there wasn't a lot of preparation that could be done in regards to planning out what work we would be doing before we started. However, the team set up introductions for using certain software and insight speeches to let us know what is involved in each part of the team.

The team allowed me to shadow various different job roles where I was then taught how to use the necessary software etc. In my downtime I also did a lot of self learning for software that I was aware was used within the team. After my own personal learning I was able to ask questions to improve my knowledge and gain a better understanding.

I would definitely see the possibility of myself coming back to the company for a business placement next year. After that I would also consider coming back as a graduate. The company as a whole seems like a great place to work and the people who work here are lovely. It has less of a corporate feel than I thought it would; everyone makes you feel like an equal. The company perks and possibility for travel also make it very appealing to me.

The social event with the company and also within smaller parts of the team were great. There was always some sort of event on. Whether it be heading out for lunch, Friday drinks, work BBQs or a night out in town. I have made great friends, both with permanent members of the team and fellow placement students. I'll be sad to leave them.

I lived at home during the time of my placement, however the general cost of living and socialising is quite reasonable. In comparison to those working in London, Belfast is cheap as chips. Going for a few drinks after work with the team was always possible and didn't break the bank.

Being from Belfast myself I know most of the best places to go so I enjoy the nightlife here. It all depends on what you're interested in. There's a few good bars in the area if you prefer the pub atmosphere. The clubs in the area have great variations of music, whether you prefer RnB, techno, pop, house or electric. One of the graduates on the team said that he enjoys jazz so I let him know about a local Jazz Bar. One thing I would suggest for people new to Belfast would be Culture Night.

The company hold a social event on the first Friday of every month where you usually pay £3 for a few drinks tokens and the money goes to charity. There are always other events held too, such as the summer BBQ. When you make friends in the team everyone is always open for activities outside of work if you suggest it. The team are currently organizing a weekend away to a hotel for a spa and paintballing too.