Your Team Mates

Bing Yang

This has now been the third internship I've had with Data Connection, having already worked here during my gap year and also last summer. I think the fact that I keep coming back despite all the other internships available speaks volumes about how much I enjoyed working here.

Despite being a software company, working at DC is nothing like the stereotypical view of working in software - there is no sign of bearded, middle aged men sweating away in poorly lit cubicles. Instead employees work in spacious, well lit open plan offices where you just have to turn round in order to talk to the other members of your team, whether it be for something work-related or just some general chit chat. People do tend to work very hard here, but it's of their own accord and not because they're being forced to by management.

One of the great things about the work interns do at DC is that it's actual "real work" - important work that the company actually needs to get done, unlike some companies where interns are given mystery tasks that serve no purpose except to keep the intern jumping through hoops for a summer. For example, the work that I've been doing this summer will get shipped to customers within the next few months. That makes the whole experience so much more rewarding.

The work is also very intellectually challenging and, dare I say it, fun. The tasks you are given are all intended to stretch you, while your mentor will be there to help and guide you should you ever find yourself struggling to keep up. You'll have to constantly think about the best way to solve any given problem, not just bash away like a mindless robot.

There's also a very active social life for DC interns. Most interns choose to stay in one of the company houses, which are just minutes (or, in some cases, seconds!) away from the office. This gives interns a great way of getting to know each other, especially ones in other departments. Often you'll find yourself heading off to the pub or out for a meal after work, and maybe even the occasional barbecue over the summer.

Also, how could I get away without mentioning the various perks that come from working at DC. These range from well organised division wide outings to the frequent trips down to the pub after work (all paid for by the company of course) to celebrate everything from a new starter, to someone getting engaged, to a product release. These are all great opportunities to meet people, have a laugh and just relax after a hard day's work.

Ultimately, if you ever wanted the opportunity to experience working for an internationally renowned software company, meet a load of interesting people and have fun while doing it, I would highly recommend Data Connection.