Resource Administrator Review

My time at IBM has been one of the best years of my life. The exposure I got and responsibility was something I did not expect. I was given a full time role and instantly gained independence and confidence. The constant support I received from my task team was second to none. I am eager to come back as a Grad in order to expand my IBM career as the opportunities are endless. I am so proud to have called myself an IBMer and I truly believe no other placement will be the same as this.

I feel 100% valued by my colleagues. Aside from being a strong team in the office, our bond outside the office is just as strong. We have regular nights out and team occasions and I can honestly say I have made some real friends.

Throughout my whole placement I was given support. Regardless of the time/day I needed support, I received 100% support. I can rely on them for any sort of support I need, and if they are unable to help, they always point me in the direction of someone who can. This doesnt just go for people my level, I know I can reach out to senior members of staff and they are more than happy to provide me with the support I need.

If i was to not take my role, they would have a full time IBMer completing it. Some times were busier than others however I often found myself working more than my contracted hours in busy periods. I constantly got given new tasks to keep me occupied.

I was given a huge amount of responsibility during my placement. I worked directly with the Vice President of the account several times, being given my own projects in order to gain independence. I also took on several independent tasks and visited different offices on my own. When wanting to learn different skills I took it upon myself to find people to support me and was treated like an IBMer from the get go.

I do not think the skills I have developed at my placement will assist me a lot in my degree however in the working life I think they will. My placement has helped me with time management which will benefit me with my final year a Uni. The skills I have learnt at IBM are transferable and I find myself using them in day to day life.

My office in Preston was like a family. We did things outside of the office as well to bond more. The activities we did were endless and I could rely on my peers for support all the time no matter what the problem was. It was also so happy and encouraging

My placement was organized very well. From sorting the expenditures of my assessment center right up to extending my contract, I always felt I had a direct contact for any problem. Within the first week at IBM I felt settled and had everything set up eg my laptop. I had regular contact with my EPM which kept things organized.

When I discovered some roles I found an interest in, I spoke to my manager and she pointed me in the direction of courses that would help me develop this. I was also given the opportunity to shadow a range of IBMers to develop my personal learning and development even more.

I am currently applying for my Graduate Scheme and the opportunities it can give you are endless. There are constant new projects all across the country that the Graduate Scheme can offer so no month is the same dependent on what you want to do. I am ver eager to come back as a Grad and develop my IBM career.

Yes, with only 7 of us in my office, I thought it would be limited however we regular do things outside of work. Whether this be going to London for an event, a night out in Manchester, or relaxing weekend in the lakes, we always try and do things together each month.

So with living at home, money isnt too much of an issue for me, however for some of the other interns I know money was a little tight however thats life! We all need to learn to budget. The ay with IBM is fab, and on the rise I believe so I wouldnt let money conflict any decisions.

There are many contractors and IBMers who are from London so live in hotels during the week. They seem to have a great nightlife, and not being too far from Manchester makes it all the more easier. Myself and interns often go to the cinema or for dinner after work as well which is nice to wine down together.

There were so many opportunities! Each office hosts a Wednesday drink event where IBMers can all meet up. There is also a sporting event in the summer and IBM Preston do the Yorkshire 3 peaks which is a 24 mile walk in under 12 hours which is a great way to bond outside of the office.