• Name
    Shriyansh
  • Job Title and Employer
    Software Engineer
  • Employer
    BT
  • Provider
    Ravensbourne University
  • Levels
    Level 6 (Higher) Apprenticeship
  • Training Provider and Qualification
    Digital & Technology Solutions - Level 6
  • Occupations
    Computing, technology and digital
  • Apprenticeship Start Date
    Sep 2019
  • Skills Gained
    Software Engineering Project Management Public Speaking Networking Problem Solving
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Hello, I Am Shriyansh

It wasn’t until a conversation with my Economics teacher that I heard of an apprenticeship. Curious by what she described, I went home that day and obsessed over the different types of apprenticeships and their benefits. Initially, I couldn’t believe that I would obtain a Level 6 certification, all while working and earning at the same time. I felt that the abundance of benefits an apprenticeship would bring would be best suited for my pathway of Software Engineering and decided then that was the path I would peruse. I always felt like I was a practical learner, who enjoyed doing tasks and working - which is exactly what an apprenticeship entail.

Tell us more about your experience

What are your interests outside of work? 

Basketball, Gym, Tennis, Football, Reading, Concerts, Travelling 

 
Can you describe your job and what you do on a day-to-day basis? 

Over the last couple years, I've worked in different teams including project management where I shadowed and aided in the delivery of the Champions League Final and Premier League promotions/relegations. I also led my own project of the Scottish premier league promotions and relegations. However, currently I am back in Software. Engineering where I automate our data collection and visualisation process for our clients. I work with a team of other developers, collaborating with design processes, implementing them and testing them. Most of my day consists of coding, however I also spend a large chunk of my time learning new technologies to ensure I can be more efficient in my work. When I do get the time, I participate in many different extracurricular activities - I even started my own podcast here at BT which is out now on Spotify! 

 

What has been the highlight of your career so far? 

I have been very fortunate throughout my apprenticeship to receive an abundance of opportunities from my friends and colleagues. I have been able to speak with many aspiring apprentices, detailing my career journey and mentoring them, going to the House of Commons to speak to MPs about my role as well as starting and co-hosting my own podcast. However, the highlight of my career has been winning the National Apprenticeship Awards in the Special Achievement Category. 

 

What has been the biggest challenge of your career so far? 

Despite enjoying every bit of what I do, I have also had some challenges along the way. The biggest challenge I have faced is managing my time in delivering high profile projects at work, while still completing my university assessments and ensuring I complete them at the highest standard. With years of practicing, I feel I have finally gotten the hang of it (fingers crossed). It’s been difficult at periods, but I now feel accomplished and proud in my journey 

 

What sort of support network do you have at your company? 

The support network here at BT is second to none. I’m extremely grateful for them. Tremendous aid from my colleagues, employer and training provider especially in difficult times. The culture is amazing, and, in my experience, everyone is selfless and just wants you to grow. My manager stayed online till 8pm when I was stressing overly university assessment - calming me down and helping me with my learning. This is something I’m very thankful for. 

 

What will happen at the end of your apprenticeship and have you discussed this with your employer? 

At the end of my apprenticeship, I will be guaranteed a job and will assimilate in the team I am currently working in. I am excited to work in the team on a full-term basis and dedicate my time to my work. 

 

What would be your words of advice to someone thinking about doing an apprenticeship? 

For anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship, I would recommend applying as soon as possible. I applied to over 30 apprenticeships and managed to secure 4. It’s really a numbers game! By undergoing different application processes, I felt that I learnt from each one and was able to be more successful in the next one. Additionally, I had options at the end of my apprenticeship to see which culture I best fit in. I think it is also important for any aspiring apprentices to research on the culture of each company and see if they can picture themselves there, as much as the company is seeing if you are right for the role, you should also be seeing if the company and role are right for you. 

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