Data Science Intern Review

Developing solutions to address automation and efficiency needs within the business, using the Microsoft Power Platform. A typical day involves meeting with stakeholders to understand their needs and how we can create a digital solution that will bring value to their team. Time is then spent developing the solution, typically in Microsoft PowerApps, with regular feedback sessions. Another aspect of the role is providing training sessions to develop employees' digital skills, such as understanding of AI and Power BI.

Communication - writing Teams posts to promote events, creating and presenting PowerPoints both in-person and virtually, communicating with stakeholders to get a firm understanding of what they are looking for in a digital solution. PowerPlatform - I previously had no knowledge of the Microsoft Power Platform, but can now confidently create solutions in PowerApps, Power BI and Power Automate. Active listening - listening to stakeholders and understanding their needs. Managing expectations - being realistic with stakeholders about what is an achievable solution. It is better to under-promise and over-deliver, than to over-promise and risk disappointing.

Much more responsibility than I had expected. I got to lead my own projects from the very start, putting me in charge of communicating with stakeholders and developing solutions for them. I also led training sessions for staff members. I was given a lot of responsibility, but there was always support along the way too.

There was constant support from my manager and wider team - I could always ask them for help whenever I needed. I also took part in a mentorship scheme to learn more about topics outside of my day job.

Very inclusive culture with regular belonging days and self-improvement sessions. Each employee gets 2 volunteering days per year, but early careers get 5 days, allowing time to give to causes that matter to you. Our office was quite male-dominated, especially in the engineering departments (this is improving, but still a long way to go), but I never felt out of place as a female, and always felt like a valued member of the team.

Immensely - I got the opportunity to travel, to take ownership of my own work and projects, to create a measurable impact on the business, to improve my skills massively, to volunteer at careers fairs, helping children from disadvantaged backgrounds, and to learn so much. The internship was better than I could have imagined and I have improved so much because of it, both in my technical abilities, but also my softer skills.

Yes

Applications are skills-based, so making sure you can demonstrate softer skills (such as communication, team-work, enthusiasm etc.) is really important. Give examples of how you have built on these soft skills during your interview. Technical skills can be taught on the job, so show your eagerness to learn.