Meet Issam, graduate of Applied Computer Science

Read this interview and discover:

• How Issam chose his current role
• How he knew he was ready to start work – the skills and mindset
• His key motivation

And: Get Issam’s advice for future Applied Computer Science students.

Issam, Tell us what you do at Delaware.

My responsibilities range from Design, Development and Execution to Monitoring, Governance and Consultancy. The role is versatile. One day I am very technical. Another day I am very functional. In general I help resolve customer needs.

How did you discover this opportunity?

I got to talk to Delaware during an internship event hosted by KdG.

Did you apply to other companies?

Yes, I did. I got three other offers but I thought Delaware were the best fit. They offered versatility and opportunities to learn from professionals with a range of skills. I liked that scope for flexibility.

How did you prepare for and decide upon your chosen career?

Early on in my studies I started to understand from our lecturers what is trending in today’s IT world. I slowly grew a desire to become a solution architect in both AI & Software development.

I didn’t really properly think about work until my third year. But after focusing on that end goal, I decided to look for positions which would allow me to learn as much as possible in a multi-tier manner.

What was the transition like from student to working life?

It was amazing. I honestly felt professionally ready. KdG prepared me by giving me the confidence to develop technical skills as well as giving me the soft skills during the company simulation course.

Delaware’s culture is all about feeling like a family. I was allocated a buddy from day one. I had weekly meetings with my buddy, Lisa, where I could express my feelings and Delaware are prepared to adapt the environment to make you settle in and feel comfortable.

After 6 months I’ve learned a lot more than I expected initially.

In what ways did KdG prepare you best for your chosen career?

In addition to practising the technical skills in the context of AI, knowing how to translate customer needs into actions. How to ask the right questions. Although I acquired no knowledge about SAP during my curriculum, I did learn a lot when it comes to adapting to new environments.

I also learnt to be accountable. If we made a mistake we had to take responsibility. You become a team player.

What knowledge or personal characteristics are important for you to do your job well?

Consistency. Responsibility. Confidence. And some technical know-how!

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Flexibility of time and mind. The chance to learn from a wide range of professionals. And the international environment. It’s very diverse here.

What were the key moments during your time at KdG where you felt you were progressing?

When I had to take the lead in projects. That helped me develop my confidence more than I could ever imagine. And after I did my internship, I saw myself being really, really ready.

What advice would you give to new students?

• Be comfortable asking for help. In other words, ask as many questions as possible.
• Be reliable and accountable. Your classmates need you, especially on projects. And your teachers will take note.
• Be consistent. Give it your best every day.

When you start work, work as though it’s your own company. Give it the same commitment.

What has been your biggest motivating factor?

I left my family in Algeria to come and study overseas. My family's hopes were the motivation for me to keep going. Wanting to do things as perfectly as possible led me to succeed every time. I kept on thinking: I need to win.

What’s next for you?

I want to become a leader in the future. I love teaching. I want to help people to find a better version of themselves.