Software Developer

Hokay Chung

Computer Science and IT

Placement (10 Months+)

Totalmobile

What was the interview process like?

I was invited to an assessment day at the Cognito iQ office. In the morning, I completed problem solving, technical and psychometric tests. Then we did a group activity involving lego! In the afternoon, there was a technical and a personality interview.

How much responsibility do you have?

I had a fair amount of responsibility and could make contributions to discussions about the work. The projects I worked on were the same as what the other software developers on my team worked on and I never felt like I was doing something insignificant.

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

Do your research and prepare ahead of the assessment day. When you’re at the assessment centre make sure to show your interest in the company and for the role you’re applying for.

What do you most enjoy about your role?

I definitely liked the challenge and learning new things. I enjoyed discovering all the different technologies that Cognito iQ use and trying them in practice. I never found it boring and was kept very busy!

How has this experience exceeded your expectations?

I learnt a huge variety of different things during this placement and developed both technical and soft skills. I was able to work on real projects and really contribute to the company!

What is the office atmosphere like?

The general atmosphere at Cognito is great and very busy. The fact that it is open plan gives the environment a friendly feel and you can always see what is going on in the office. It also makes communicating with other people very easy.

What activities are there outside of work?

There was a big Christmas party organised by the company that was really good fun. It took place in a hotel with the food and entertainment provided for free. There were also smaller events organised such as go karting. Also, Friday is pub day.

How promising are the graduate prospects?

The graduate prospects are very promising. There’s a high chance of being offered a graduate job if you work well throughout the year. Many placement students have returned to Cognito iQ.