Junior Developer Maths Modeller

Ahmed Hassan

Computer Science and IT

Placement (10 Months+)

Ash Gaming

What did you enjoy most about your placement/internship?

I had a lot of time to work on my own ideas which helped me expand my role. My initial role was writing simulations to validate our maths models. Over time, I created my own simulations framework and maths modelling library for slot machines which is how I started developing maths models as well as validating them. I also developed a separate tool to create server configuration directly from the game model which makes server development faster.

How did Ash Gaming prepare you for your placement/internship?

When I started, the previous placement student was still working. There was a one month overlap with him. He explained everything that I needed to know to take over his place. That was the most helpful part. I also had two weeks in the beginning to form a better idea about our work and that included activities such as visiting a local betting shop and shadowing other employees in different departments.

What was the application process like?

I applied online first then I was asked for a face-to-face interview. The interview was probably one the best interviews I ever had. I was interviewed by the same people I would later work directly with. They focused on the actual skills I need for the job rather than textbook questions that I experienced in most other interviews. They replied to me a week after the interview and gave me two weeks to make a decision.

How much responsibility were you given during your placement/internship?

My responsibilities grew gradually. First I was only creating Monte Carlo simulations. Gradually I expanded my role into maths modelling, communicating with the server developers to explain game logic and creating testing plans to verify server logic against the maths model. I liked the fact that I wasn’t under pressure most of the time, and I always had people to help if I needed, but at the same time I was allowed to expand my role a lot.

Would you want to return to work full time at Ash Gaming and if so, why?

Yes, I have already arranged informally with the company to come back after I finish one year at university, and during that time I should be working part-time. There are two main reasons I want to return:

The social atmosphere is good and I have a very good relationship with my manager which is quite important to me.

I get a lot of time to work on my own ideas.