Software Developer Intern Review

Daily role involves a 30-minute standup with the sprint team I worked with, then doing development work on assigned tickets. Completing a ticket involved breaking down the problem, writing code to solve it, testing the code and fixing errors. This was approximately 50-50 split between individual work and paired work (either in-person or online). About 30-60m of additional calls in a day, for refinement sessions or other agile ceremonies, normally before lunch.

I was given equal responsibility as all other developers in the team (same tickets to choose from), but was given greater support and guidance to account for limited knowledge. I thought this was a big positive element that allowed strong learning and development. Responsibility for project/product development as a whole was split between all developers.

- Learnt how to work in new languages/frameworks (Had no experience with Java Spring, React, Typescript, Azure Pipelines before this, but used them all)
- Learnt how to write high quality code. Code that is clear, concise, readable, understandable and maintainable.
- Agile processes and ceremonies, and how to contribute effectively to them.
- Positive experiences with quality leaders in the team taught me leadership skills.
- Interfacing with 'business side' of the project, through product refinement calls.

I felt like I could always get answers when I needed assistance. The sprint team provided very strong support and were always willing to answer all questions and provide guidance. The wider development team were likewise always willing to answer any questions about specific technologies. Elements of the role required working alongside others where there was no clear best solution, and coming to joint solutions.

Company culture was relaxed in general, seemed to lack some ambition and drive in places. The team I was working with did well to create a relaxed atmosphere where people felt comfortable. The general atmosphere for the teams I experienced was likewise.

I highly enjoyed my internship, and valued working with other team members and other interns. It was a positive experience that I learnt a significant amount from. Additionally, there were a good array of social activities, and a deliberate attempt to build a strong social culture which people enjoyed.

Yes