Business Analyst Review

Really enjoyable placement

Valued from colleagues by the end, took a little work at the beginning to gain trust

Lots of support given, plans were put in place from the start to ensure I was developing. Monthly catch ups were put in place with line manager and 3 throughout the year with HR manager

Very busy, but not unmanageable

Was given my own project and helped on some worthwhile projects, but struggled to get much external exposure

Develop really useful skills throughout the year, and the work definitely helped with my university projects as I linked theory and academic models to work life

The atmosphere in the office was really friendly. Certain days were more quiet than others as people traveled in and back home, i.e. Monday and Friday both quiet. The office is a very welcoming place with the open plan feel and the hot desk environment, overall a very nice atmosphere to work in

Very well organised placement. From the initial induction with all the other interns, to the constant available contact provided. The placement is set out in a way with staggered reviews to ensure that you are developing and learning from the placement. Work was organised in a way that it progressively got more demanding, in line with your working,

The initial induction gives a broad overview of the company as a whole. There is also extensive internal learning available through a 'Think40' platform, teaching you anything about a current IBM portfolio and offerings. However, in terms of professional development there is little opportunity to gain accredited qualifications or certificates.

Very appealing. After completing the placement year I aim to come straight back to IBM on the graduate scheme. The graduate roles are different to the placement and build upon skills, ensuring that you are always learning and developing. Once through the graduate scheme, future opportunities are very widespread as moving within the company is common

As I was placed in Edinburgh for my placement, along with one other student, the social scene is a little difficult to establish amongst other placement students. However, there are a number of social events put on by the IBM Social club, such as theatre tickets, evening dinners etc. There is also a good informal social scene, with after work drinks and a few nights out. The Christmas dinner is very enjoyable and well attended!

Edinburgh is a pretty expensive city. The cost of living is quite expensive, with rent being fairly high in contrast with other areas. Socialising in the area is also quite expensive, with a number of bars in Edinburgh charging the capital prices. With that being said, Edinburgh is a really nice place to live and there is always plenty to do in the city.

Edinburgh has a really good night life. There is everything you could want depending on the night you want to have. Really good music scene no matter what your taste is. There are a number of large nightclubs, as well as different bars and pubs. The city is split into a few distinct areas, all offering something different. Rose Street has quaint little pubs, George Street has quite expensive but trendy bars and nightclubs, Grassmarket has a mixture of pubs and bars, and the Royal Mile boasts a vast number of pubs.

There are a number of IBM club events put on throughout the year which you can get involved in. They range from paint balling to theatre trips, and plenty in between.