Ed Atkins

“

I was directly in charge of 15 members of staff and had to drive the team to ensure we delivered. I have no doubt that without the skills I developed at Derby, I wouldn't have been placed in such a responsible position.

”

Ed is studying BSc (Hons) Networks and Security and spent his placement year as a Networks Engineer for Littlefish.

Why I chose Derby

Having always had a keen interest in technology, I decided to study a networks degree. I chose Derby because of the additional skills they built into the course, such as presenting, leading, and working as part of a team.

A challenging but rewarding course

The course itself has been extremely challenging, but truly enjoyable. The lecturers deliver an inspirational approach to learning. I've studied a wide range of computer networking technologies and concepts covered by modules such as Wide Area Networks, Wireless Networks and Network Communications.

The course also offered the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) academy programme, which I successfully completed towards to end of my second year. This helped me to secure my placement job.

Finding a placement

I was given a lot of support when looking for a placement position. Throughout the process I was supported by the Faculty Placement Officer. She mentored me and prepared for my placement year and helped me to secure a position with a company called Littlefish. I urge any future students seeking an industrial placement to take note of and follow the guidance of the Placement Officer throughout the process, as it will prove extremely beneficial.

My year as a Network Engineer

At the beginning of my placement year at Littlefish, I was tasked to run the Support Helpdesk. I was swiftly transferred and became an Onsite Engineer, travelling nationwide to resolve issues for our clients.

Roughly six months into my placement, Littlefish secured a contract for an infrastructure migration of the UK's largest jewellery retailer, with over 600 stores nationwide. I was tasked to be the networks lead on the project and my duties involved both technically implementing and managing the project. Over the course of the implementation phase of the migration, I was directly in charge of 15 members of staff and personally had to drive the team to ensure we delivered. I have no doubt that without the skills I developed at Derby, I wouldn't have been placed in such a responsible position.

My future

Looking to the future, I believe the combination of my degree and my placement experience will give me the edge over others when applying for graduate jobs in the future.