Studying Honours in Software development at University of Stirling. Currently an Applications Development summer intern at Baillie Gifford.
June 2019.
In S5 I achieved Higher (SCQF level 6) Administration & IT, Computing and Maths. I was ill during most of my senior school years.
Mr Hamilton and Ms Allen helped check in on me during my schooling and made sure I had everything I needed, as I was sick for the majority of it when I moved to Stirling high. They were approachable and friendly no matter how silly the question was.
My interest for IT was fostered by Ms McAlpine and Mr Mullin. They made computing class fun and interesting for me. Compared to my previous school they had enthusiasm for the subject and useful teaching material.
When I was struggling to get good grades, Ms McAlpine talked to me and took the time to suggest what path I could go down and what I needed to do to get there.
All of their help is the reason I ended up being happy and comfortable in my current position. I am currently on a paid internship for a large investment firm, I learn new tech everyday and play around with Artificial Intelligence.
I took very easy introductory online courses from large companies such as Oracle and Cisco, which helped me learn technology that would aid me in University and the workplace (you can also show it off on your CV). This was a great choice as it allowed me to work at my own pace.
Curiosity, kindness and confidence are the most invaluable skills in a character. At university and in industry you will be put in teams. Nobody is expected at a younger age to know everything. Having the confidence to ask questions and help others is the best way of learning, it fosters a friendly and collaborative network which helps drive each other.
I was never very good at school and didn't get great marks. Whilst you should study hard, remember intelligence comes in many forms. It isn't the end of the world if you are bad at one subject you are less interested in, you will still go places if you figure out what area interests you and try.
Its nice to be nice. One thing is clear in modern work culture... The best companies to work for, don't hire people that make others feel bad about themselves.
If you decide to take the route of university, once you reach your third year make sure you apply for as many Summer internships as possible before Christmas. Its an employers market so you won't hear back from many of them but having your foot in the door first always boosts your chances. I am far from the brightest in my year but applying early to many companies allowed me to gain more opportunity than those who left it too late.
A comment specifically for anybody thinking of working in an industry such as Software or Engineering where the stereotype is that everyone in that area is anti-social (not true!). Having any non-office job on your CV such as hospitality or retail will show employers that you can talk to people. My short time in retail ended up being the main interest to interviewers.
