Gellila is a Biomedical Engineering graduate from the University of Reading. They secured a graduate role on the Technology Graduate Programme at Hastings Direct in Bexhill-on-Sea, through Bright Network. 
First, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
“Growing up, I was always curious about how things work. I wanted to be an inventor or engineer, constantly building or fixing something. That curiosity naturally led me to study Biomedical Engineering at university, where I earned my MEng. Over time, I discovered a strong interest in technology and software, and I started to focus more on software engineering.
What I love about this field is that it combines problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration. I'm someone who enjoys fast-paced environments and challenges that push me to think differently. My motivation comes from the constant opportunity to learn and to build things that can have real-world impact.”
What motivated you to apply for the role?
“What motivated me to apply for the role was the opportunity to work at a company that values innovation, collaboration and continuous learning.
I was drawn to Hastings Direct because of its reputation for embracing technology to improve customer experiences and its supportive culture stood out to me during my research.
The position itself aligned with my skills and interests as it offered a balance of technical challenges, team collaboration and real-world impact. I saw it as a great environment to grow professionally, contribute and be part of a forward-thinking organisation.”
What was the application process like?
“The application process was thorough and gave me a real insight into the company and its values. After the initial stages, the final part was an assessment centre, which included group activities, one-on-one interviews and a presentation based on a project I was assigned a couple of weeks in advance.
What surprised me was how much the company focused on collaboration and communication during the group tasks; it was not just about having the right answer, but about how you worked with others to get there. Preparing for the presentation was also a challenge, especially balancing the detail and clarity needed to present my ideas effectively, but once it was done, I felt proud of how far I'd come in building both my confidence and my ability to think under pressure.”
How did Bright Network help you secure your role?
“Bright Network played a key role in helping me secure my role by connecting me with opportunities I hadn't come across elsewhere.
While browsing the available job roles on the platform, I discovered the Hastings Direct advertisement which I hadn't seen on any other job site. Thanks to Bright Network, I was able to find and apply for a role that aligned with my interests.”
What are you most proud of about your journey?
“One of the things I'm most proud of is staying resilient throughout the job search journey. It can sometimes be disheartening facing rejections or waiting to hear back and there were moments when I questioned whether I was doing enough or heading in the right direction.
The biggest challenge was maintaining motivation and confidence, but I kept refining my applications, learning from each experience and pushing forward. When I finally received an offer, it felt rewarding; not just because I landed a role, but because I knew how much effort and perseverance it took to get there. That sense of achievement made everything worth it.”
What have you learnt from going through the process?
“Going through the process taught me the importance of preparation, adaptability, and self-belief. I learned that it is not just about having the right answers, but also about how you communicate, work with others, and show your potential.
The process was more in-depth than I expected, especially the assessment centre, but it gave me a clearer picture of the company and the role. Looking back, I wish I had known how much companies value cultural fit and soft skills alongside technical ability – that would have helped me focus more on showcasing those from the start.”
What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
“For anyone looking to follow a similar path, my biggest tip would be to stay proactive and open-minded. Apply for roles even if you don't tick every single box, because a lot of the time, employers are looking for potential, not perfection. Tailor your applications, prepare well for interviews and treat every stage as a learning opportunity.
In terms of resources, Bright Network helped me discover opportunities I would not have found elsewhere, and LinkedIn was great for connecting with professionals and researching companies. I also found mock interviews, feedback from peers, and career events valuable in boosting my confidence.
If I could do one thing differently, I would have started networking and seeking guidance earlier. Speaking to people in the industry gave me so much insight, and I wish I had tapped into that sooner.”
Tell us about the future. What's next?
“I'm looking forward to starting this new chapter and applying what I have learned so far in a real-world setting. I am excited to keep growing my skills in software engineering, to work on projects and to collaborate with experienced professionals.
What excites me most is the opportunity to keep learning, whether that's through formal training, mentorship, or hands-on experience. I want to keep challenging myself, take on new responsibilities over time and eventually contribute to shaping innovative solutions that make a real difference.”
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