AI/ML Intern Review

During my internship, I was primarily responsible for conducting comprehensive data analysis on various datasets. This involved closely understanding and aligning with customer requirements to ensure that our solutions met their needs. I also took on the task of designing and building machine learning models tailored for specific services. On a regular basis, I had the privilege of presenting our findings and collaborating on proposed solutions with senior team members, ensuring that our strategies were both innovative and effective.

While my academic background provided me with a solid foundation in mathematics and computer science, my internship at Sage significantly bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and industry application. I was introduced to best coding practices and became well-acquainted with the agile methodology and sprint work structures prevalent in many software companies. Furthermore, I honed my skills in applying machine learning techniques to address real-world challenges. Perhaps the most exhilarating experience was the opportunity to deploy our model into a functional service, allowing customers to directly access our predictions. While many students are adept at developing models within environments like Jupyter Notebooks, this internship empowered me to transition these models into tangible, industry-ready solutions.

During my placement, our AI/ML intern team was entrusted with a significant degree of autonomy in determining our work methodologies and problem-solving approaches. While we had the liberty to explore and innovate, senior team members were consistently available, offering invaluable guidance and support whenever required. This balance of freedom and mentorship not only facilitated the development of effective solutions but also spurred us to uncover novel strategies for the challenges at hand. Moreover, this approach instilled a sense of ownership and pride in our projects from start to finish, a sentiment that I believe is deeply gratifying for any data scientist and arely happens during an internship.

During my internship, our AI/ML intern team, comprising three members, was fortunate to be guided by a Tech Lead who is an accomplished AI Research Scientist with extensive industry experience. He adeptly assisted us in organizing sprints and accurately planning our tasks, explaining what is possible and in what time limits. We convened for meetings at least twice a week, during which he addressed our queries and offered insights on potential data science methodologies and machine learning models to explore. In addition to this comprehensive guide, each intern was paired with a dedicated mentor. These mentors were readily available to assist and respond to any inquiries, ensuring we had consistent support. We also scheduled one-on-one sessions with our mentors at least once a week to discuss not only project-specific questions, but to get our feedback and speak about our wellbeing. In essence, the level of support and mentorship we received was truly exceptional, surpassing the expectations of any intern.

The company culture resonated deeply with me, fostering a sense of unity and friendship. At its core, the culture emphasized honesty, transparency, and a genuine commitment to delivering the best possible value to our customers. This commitment was underpinned by a culture of continuous learning and self-improvement, which aligns seamlessly with my personal values. Furthermore, the company placed a strong emphasis on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which I found both refreshing and essential after my sleepless nights at the university. Every colleague, regardless of their team or role, exuded warmth and approachability. I particularly appreciated the open-door policy, where I could reach out to someone from a different department, invite them for lunch, and discuss not just work, but life in general. Their willingness to assist with our project, even without any obligation, truly exemplified the collaborative spirit that permeates the organization.

My internship at Sage was an immensely rewarding experience, and I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity. I had the privilege of interacting with numerous individuals who are not only esteemed experts in their respective domains but also genuinely engaging and delightful to be around. The knowledge I gained regarding industry-standard best practices in machine learning will undoubtedly serve as a cornerstone in my future career. Beyond the professional growth, the team-building activities further enriched the experience. Participating in events like karting and escape rooms alongside senior members added a layer of enjoyment and bonding. In summary, the blend of learning, networking, and fun made my time at Sage truly memorable.

Yes

For those considering an application to Sage (UK) Ltd, my foremost advice would be to approach the process with a sense of calm, and try to show their trueselves. During my interview, I was pleasantly surprised by the supportive and understanding behaviour of the interviewers. Rather than feeling pressured, I was encouraged to relax, leading to a genuine dialogue about my interests, aspirations, and past projects. So, present the best version of yourself, be genuine in your discussions, and remember that the interview is as much about getting to know you as it is about assessing your skills.