Nicola from Information Services
I graduated from Staffordshire University with a Bsc (Hons) degree in Computing Science. This was a four-year course, which included a year working in industry. I worked my sandwich year at AstraZeneca Alderley Park, and it was there I discovered the professional and personal development opportunities available on the graduate scheme. I applied on-line for a graduate role during my final year at University and was asked to attend a two-day assessment centre at the Cheshire site. The assessment process consisted of many different elements including one-to-one interviews, psychometric testing and group exercises. I initially thought this might prove to be a little overwhelming, but I relaxed very quickly in the friendly atmosphere. I was offered a role assisting in the implementation and support of Atlas (a chromatography data system) at the Macclesfield site, and joined my team shortly after graduating. To begin with I found the workload a little light, but was given the opportunity to take on some other small projects until I could attend the relevant training to contribute to my primary role more effectively. One of my small projects included raising the awareness of SHE (Safety, Health and Environment) within my team by becoming a SHE representative. Part of this role consists of performing safety inspections and training team members in safety at work policies. Another project involved increasing innovation within the department. For this I became one of three innovation champions. We worked together to organise a launch event, train staff, create a web site, organise competitions, and develop a set process to evaluate and push forward ideas generated by the scheme. After a couple of months I was able to start work in the role I was initially assigned. As I enjoyed the scope and variety of my other projects so much, I decided to continue with them alongside my primary role. Working on Atlas now takes up the majority of my time. As well as monitoring the system, I help to take care of: · User problems and queries · Design and maintenance of the Atlas website · Requests for change to the system · Implementation and rollout to other departments · System maintenance · Communication with the manufacturer In addition to my work, I've been given the opportunity to attend many personal and technical development courses. Examples of these include a foundation certificate course in Service Management and a 'Self Development and Personal Effectiveness' outward-bound workshop. In conclusion, I have found the last two years to be challenging and rewarding, and I'm looking forward to a great career at AstraZeneca. |
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