Bright Network member David is currently studying Physics at King College London. After having attended Bright Network Technology Top 150 in 2015 he secured a three month internship with Skyscanner based in Edinburgh.
We caught up with David to find out about his experiences and how Technology Top 150 helped him out.
What was most valuable about the day?
I loved the fact there were so many different technology companies present at the event – it really was all-encompassing. It highlighted to me that a lot of firms had a strong technology arm to them, which was not necessarily well known about.
I did some research in my first year which suggested that an internship was a must if I wanted to get ahead. This event was a great place to start as beforehand I wasn’t really clued up on the huge variety of opportunities.
Why did you choose Skyscanner?
Before the event I hadn't planned to apply to Skyscanner. I spoke to one of their representatives during the networking session where they told me about the Skyscanner culture – it was clear that an exciting innovative company, like this, would best fit me. It was a friendly environment and I was comfortable chatting to them – they even had a more casual dress code, which was a much better fit for me.
Can you tell us about the application process?
To begin with, I submitted a standard application form and completed a numerical and situational test. I waited (for what felt like quite a while) for the next part which was a skype interview. After that the feedback was pretty pacey – they got back to me in the next two days for the final part which was an Assessment Centre.
I was on holiday when the Assessment Centre was planned – but luckily for me they adapted the process and organised another skype interview which included elements of the Assessment Centre.
What was most enjoyable part of the application process?
The first skype interview was great - they were really friendly and rather than question me about my knowledge of Skyscanner, they spent time trying to get to know me.
And which was the hardest?
The hardest part was the last skype interview where I had to analyse a document on how I would improve particular developments at Skyscanner.
What are your tips for our members attending Technology Top 150 2016?
- Have questions ready to ask the firm representatives. I didn’t have enough and had to rely a bit too much on my peers.
- Research the companies who are attending the event before you get there. This should help you come up with some good questions too.
- Be outgoing – remember it’s not just about meeting firms but also about meeting like-minded students who are the top tech students in the UK!