Software Engineer Intern Review

If you like software development - this place is the place to be. I was challenged, yet the support and people around you make the learning process enjoyable and painless. Because being a software developer isn't quite as cool as being a rock star I have to give it a 9/10.

Metaswitch definitely has a family atmosphere in and out of the office with at least one or two pub outings a week. My manger, my manager's manager, even the CEO seems to have a genuine interest in the well being of everyone (even me – an intern). I was just told by manager jokingly "you have to go to the pub with the rest of the team now" right after I had committed changes to the code base. So naturally a had the drink and a laugh and now back in the office making sure I didn't break anything... and typing this waiting for the build to finish.

My mentor has been a huge help. He always takes the time to make sure I understand what’s happening with the project. Also, because he’s so knowledgeable about computer science and networking, I often find myself going to him general questions about computing.

I was put to work in the development team of one of the newer products, which equated to having a fair amount of work. All for the better though – made me more engaged and was better than roaming around the internet looking for entertainment. Also as allowed me to learn more than I have could have hoped in a classroom.

As far as responsibilities and overall treatment goes they’ve treated me (and from what I can tell, the other interns) like a genuine employee. From day one I was giving access to the entire product code repository. Just last week I was given a project that needed to be done in a few days to make it into the newest product release. For me, it was exciting to be relied on like that.

Studying computer engineering I feel Metaswitch could’ve been a better fit for me. I feel I now have a head shoulders advantage over most of my classmates who spent the summer any other way. Interning here truly was the best learning experience I’ve ever had – technically speaking but also in a corporate environment regard as well.

Like I said - not like putting a rock show everyday, but the team next to me does have foam weapons (swords, maces, battle axes, etc) they play with.

I came from the state and the process of getting into my accommodations at a company house and situated at working was seamless. They gave me a key to the office and workspace with all the bells and whilst that everyone else has within the hour of arriving on the first day.

They really, really do want the interns to learn what’s going on. My mentor was always willing to answer questions. Obviously for their benefit they want you to learn what the deal is, but it works out quite nicely for the intern too.

I still have at least a couple years to think about it. Certainly wouldn't mind being a full time employee one day though.

Coming from the US the oxbridge crowd, that is the vast majority here, is a bit hard to coax out of their shells. A bit bummed about that regard of the internship.

Dirt cheap, comfortable company accommodation by the office. Definitely one of the biggest perks of the internship.

Very sad for a guy who likes his nights out. Getting into London was quite easy though, which made up for Enfield being quit.

All kinds of sports to get involved in. I would play Magic with a group of guys a couple times a week during lunch too.