Alumni features

Gillian - Summer 2007

Can you tell us a little bit about you? I am a business student with a technical background in Engineering. I always enjoy a challenge, especially technical challenges, and love bringing ideas from beginning right through to end from a business aspect.

Why did you apply for the internship?

Firstly, I thought it would be a great chance to experience the innovative projects being undertaken by IBM, one of the largest IT companies. Also, it was a great chance to experience the development of an innovative project which is fast-tracked over an intensive 3 months, gaining access to valuable support, backing and the latest technology. Finally, it gave me a chance to apply the methodology's and best practices learned to a real project environment.

How do you think your background and experience prepared you for the internship?

MMy background of Engineering and Project Management prepared me very well for the Business Placement on the Extreme Blue team. I also had experience of managing a restaurant and problem solving IT support in Arklife for consultants. Some of the qualities necessary for Extreme Blue are the ability are to take control, make valuable contributions to the team and ability to speak up and come up with innovative solutions for any problems encountered.

What have you learned from your Extreme Blue experience?

I have learned the importance of planning and tracking from the beginning of a project. Clear objectives, steps and daily task assignments are all necessary to be successful and achieve objectives on time. Team work and communication among the team is also very important as it highlights early problems that may be encountered. The presentation skills of all team members also improved immensely over the 12 weeks of practising.

Is there anything about the Extreme Blue program that surprised you?

The amount of resources and technology made available to a student internship was very surprising. There was always access to additional hardware when needed and numerous professionals ready to help even if not directly associated with the program.

Would you recommend the program to other students and why?

I would definitely recommend the program. It is the best internship I have heard of so far, provided by any large company, where an internship really benefits the students rather than the company. The qualities developed during the Extreme Blue program really stand out on any CV for the future. For those returning to college, it puts a more realistic perspective on modules learned having experienced the importance of them in industry.
It is a great chance to interact with a group of students for the summer on both a professional and social level. Also, it eases the transition from a student environment into a professional environment creating great opportunities for those finishing up in college as one gets an up close insight into the departments and technologies that exist in IBM.

Is there something you wish you hand known ahead of time? What other advice can you offer future interviewees?

Job opportunities after Extreme Blue within IBM are unbelievable. One has a choice to chat with IBMers from all departments about the work involved and then if interested, fast-track your way though the selection process for a job.
Regarding the projects, although assigned at the beginning, there is a lot of flexibility on the path and project destination. It is important that those applying have an interest in achieving, determination and willingness to speak up and contribute to the project by taking responsibility for all steps and choices made.