Software Engineering Work Experience Review

The G-Research work experience Programme was both insightful and hands-on! Rather than just shadowing employees, I had the opportunity to approach real-world tasks. The software engineering team showed me how technology and big data can be used to predict future movements in financial markets. Throughout the week, there was a perfect balance of insight talks, interview training, workshops for soft skills (i.e. presentation skills) as well as technical skill training such as a programming project.

The G-research work experience placement gave me insight into the wide range of career paths that are available in the tech industry outside of software engineering. As someone who has a passion for technology but is also very extroverted - it was amazing to learn that there are client facing roles that require both technical knowledge and great communication skills. As someone who also has a love for finance, it was also great to see that there are a variety of roles within the world of financial technology which has allowed me to further explore both passions even further.

It was a brilliant example of ‘learning on the job’. At the beginning of the week, I was assigned a project which required programming in Python - I learnt how to create Bollinger Band Plots using the Python Pandas library. I also had the opportunity to develop my softer skills such as my communication skills. I spent time speaking with current employees about their day-to-day roles and also learnt a lot from the presentation skills workshop that we had the opportunity to take part in.

It was clear that G-Research places importance innovation, collaboration and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The culture at G-Research felt very supportive and inclusive with a strong sense of community and teamwork. Employees were always willing to help me and share their knowledge. The office environment was incredibly friendly and relaxed and it was common to see people wearing casual clothing and a smile on their faces. Lunch times at the office were also very communal with an open space for staff to eat and talk.

I enjoyed every aspect of the insight from the opportunity to network to the knowledge I gained. I had the opportunity to speak to many people who are currently working the fields I’m looking to enter and gain valuable insight from them. Similarly, I got to spend the week with like-minded people my age who are working hard to excel in the fintech industry too. I also loved the opportunity to experience real-life working, commuting into London, taking on projects and collaborating with team members.

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