Returning from a year in industry with Polygeist, we interviewed Joe Bainbridge to discuss his placement and his experience finding it through the EDT.
Who did you do your placement with? And what does the company do?
I did my placement with a company named Polygeist who specialise in using artificial intelligence in innovative ways.
What was your role in the company?
My job title was ‘technologist intern’ – this was a very broad role as it is a small company with only 5 other people working there. I did work in many different areas of the company, and worked alongside everybody at different points throughout my time there.
How did the EDT help you find your placement and how did you apply?
EDT made the process of finding my placement very easy. I first did an interview with EDT, and with their help, put together a structured CV. EDT then sent me emails whenever a relevant placement opportunity came up. If I was interested, they would send the company my CV, and if successful, I would go through the interview stages.
What work did you do on your placement?
I worked on a variety of projects throughout my time there. This included researching and trying out open source AI projects to both benchmark against our projects, and test for feasibility for future projects. A lot of my projects also revolved around being given a problem or task to do, and going away and completing it using Python.
How did the EDT support you through your placement?
There was a lot of support offered from EDT during my placement, including meetings with my EDT mentor as frequently (or infrequently) as I wanted. On top of this, there were also many workshops offered, which aimed to improve a number of key skills such as communication and management.
How was the overall experience of doing a placement?
Overall, I really enjoyed my placement. It was invaluable experience being in a workplace environment and it has given me more confidence for going into a job after university. Additionally, I picked up and worked on many skills, such as teamwork and new programming skills, which will benefit me both at university and when entering the job market.
What would you say to someone considering doing a placement?
I would say not to worry about getting a placement straight away as I got mine at the end of July, and to make sure you do something that you’re interested in and will find enjoyable.
The EDT Placement Scheme is ideal for students looking for paid placements lasting between 10-12 months in computing, science, engineering, business, marketing and finance.
Applications are now open for the placement year 23/24:
https://www.etrust.org.uk/yini-register
They also have online open day events to find out more about the EDT placement scheme. The next event is on Wednesday 18th January 2023 and you can register here:
https://www.etrust.org.uk/yini-careers-events
