Software Engineering Intern

Simon Walker

Computer Science and IT

Placement (10 Months+)

ASOS

What was the interview process like?

In many ways it was much like any other placement process – starting with an online application followed by a telephone interview and then finally a half day assessment centre, however it refreshingly differed from others with the emphasis on all stages about what you did know rather than what you didn’t.

How much responsibility were you given?

The scope for getting responsibility is huge and largely down to the individual. You’re provided with a platform to discover and get actively involved in the majority of the current projects and you’re given a surprising amount of input to the direction in which you wish to pursue and the consequent responsibility this entails.

What advice would you give to someone applying for your role?

ASOS isn’t your conventional tech company and this is worth taking into consideration – it’s young, fast and vibrant. People skills and abilities to communicate, challenge and innovate are valued just as highly as any technical talents so make sure possessing these qualities are evident when applying.

What has been your biggest challenge?

It’s always a steep learning curve coming into a new technical role and getting up to speed with all the technologies a company uses is always a challenge. Naturally every intern arrives with their own skillset and experiences and thus the first couple of weeks are pretty full on but ASOS are sympathetic to this and fully supportive regardless of time constraints.

What do you most enjoy about your role?

The ethos ASOS believes to be so paramount to its success is infective and it’s this ethos that allows us as developers to have access to the latest tech which is a rare and exciting prospect in the corporate world. I love being part of a team that delivers actual functionality to real users using new and fresh technologies.

What is the atmosphere like in your team?

Each team within ASOS is unique but there are underlying core elements that are consistent and these permeate with the brand. Atmospheres are always underpinned with passion and urgency to succeed and suffice ambition; consequently it’s fast paced, constantly changing and rewarding but equally knackering.

What were the activities outside of work?

Friday beers are a common occurrence and a great way to meet people from other areas of the business that you don’t necessarily come into contact with in the working day (including the CEO) ASOS’s bi-annual parties are also a great way to celebrate the previous six months in style.

How promising are the graduate prospects?

It’s been made clear that there is definite opportunity to re-join ASOS after your final year as an Associate Engineer and they’re currently in the process of putting a graduate scheme together which I’d imagine from doing the placement would fast track this development.