Kevin - Dublin
Technical Intern, Summer 2005

Can you tell us a little bit about you?

I'm from Cork City and studied Computer Science in University College Cork. My current role is a developer on the Workplace Client Toolkit team in the IBM Dublin Software Lab.

Why did you apply for the Extreme Blue internship?

Hand holding was never something that appealed to me. When I saw that IBM had an internship program that would allow me to jump straight in the deep end, I didn't see how I could pass it up. The idea of working with 3 other top students was also attractive as it provided the opportunity to build teamwork skills with people on equal footing. Working on something ambitious with people who are talented and motivated is an exciting thing.

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

I had some experience with IBM software and methodologies from writing an Eclipse plug-in for my fourth year project. I had a strong background in Java which helped a good deal as IBM is heavily invested in Java™ based technologies. Whatever about preparation, you really need to go in with the expectation that you'll have a whole load thrown upon you that's new and you have to be enthusiastic about embracing that.

What have you learned from your Extreme Blue experience?

From a technical skills point of view, I think I learned more in 3 months that I might possibly have learned in 3 years elsewhere. It would be impossible to cite it all here. I learned you can never ask enough questions no matter how silly they may sound, I also learned the importance of putting total trust in my teammates. You also have to learn to expect the unexpected, as project requirements change during the course of the internship. Having the opportunity to practice presenting to an audience was also a huge bonus.

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

I was quite surprised at what a great place the Dublin Software Lab is to work in. People at all levels are so approachable and eager to help you as well as convey passion for the job. We had no shortage of help from our mentors. As interns, I didn't think we'd get so much attention.

Would you recommend the program to other students and why?

I've recommended to a few people already. I think top students start a degree course with the dream of one day making a living from being creative using their talents. Along the way, you tend to get the impression of the software industry as all mundane assignments, meetings and office politics. The Extreme Blue program reminds you that it can be about having fun and being innovative.

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

Ask questions from the get-go and seek whatever help you can find. The team that manages to seek out the best help in IBM is the team that will do the best.