Technology Placement Review

On a day-to-day, I would work on tasks (stories) to help the business deliver on its mission. This would consist of regular SDLC activities such as stand-up, refinement, retro, review etc. Depending on the team, this could be Scrum or Kanban. I would have meetings with buddies/mentors/managers, alongside discussions with people within the wider business on the work I was completing.

This placement is a real hands-on experience, with real problems, not just 'intern work' I would work alongside other senior developers and work on problems, with pairing when needed. Depending on the business area, you could be programming in Java, Node, or Python. You don't need any previous experience as they teach you on the job. You will also learn specific software engineer roles, and internal software/tools.

Yes! You are almost given full control over how you implement the solution. Your story would include general guidance on how to approach it, however, it is down to you to decide how you go for it. Other developers will give you reviews on how to improve your solution, alongside any further tests you should create. There can be opportunities to lead your epic/feature, however, these can be hard to come by due to the length of the programme and the time it takes for external factors in the business. However, it is normally manager's best interest to find this for you

You receive loads of support from the company. From day one you are assigned an out-of-team buddy (normally a grad) and an in-team mentor. The mentor will be there to answer any of your technical questions and help you with your stories. Running deep dive sessions on the team's infrastructure and how services communicate with one another, alongside the Capital One way (and professional) way of doing things. Your buddy is there to help you with any other issues, and to make you feel comfortable in the company. Grads also run introduction training sessions on services and languages

It's great. People are always available for a chat and will find time to help you. There are regular events which are non-drinking friendly. There are quarterly team-building days, and fun days, alongside company-wide events. There are also other activities such as watching the Euros together or taking part in the house band. Theres always a buzz in the office.

10/10 would do it again. It exceeds my expectations significantly and am looking forward to returning after I complete my degree. Who knew work could be more enjoyable than university!

Yes

Be yourself and talk! Practice with your friends on any interviews, and don't be quiet. Talk your way through the problem and be open to discussion. If you don't know something, just ask questions, they're there to help. There are also no previous experience expectations either, you are there to learn :)