Patrick Andruszkiewicz

Did you have any concerns or hesitations before you started?

No

What were your expectations?

To gain experience with big data and machine learning.

How did your experience compare with your expectations?

There was a much larger business focus than I was expecting but it was a great learning opportunity.

How would you say you enjoyed your experience?

I really enjoyed my experience I got to learn a great deal about data science as well as what it takes to come out with your own product.

In a few sentences, explain your position. Please provide details about your daily tasks, projects, and responsibilities.

To work in an interdisciplinary team to solve the biggest challenges the bank is facing in a 4 month time frame. We had access to subject matter experts from all over the bank and presented our ideas to executives throughout the bank. At the end 18 teams go head to head to compete for the best solutions.

What was your work atmosphere like? (flexibility, formality, team-centric, supportive)

Our team was extremely flexible, we could work from home when we needed to. We created our own schedules for how and when things should be completed by. We had a lot of support from other teams and departments throughout the bank.

Did you feel that any training and/or support available to you was helpful or beneficial to you?

All the training and support I received was extremely valuable to developing my technical skills and soft skills.

What previous skills and/or competencies (professional or volunteer related) helped you in your role?

Data analytics, machine learning, databases, web development, communication skills.

What previous skills and/or competencies did you develop during your placement? Are there any strengths or weaknesses that also fall into this skill/competency development?

I developed my product design skills and product ideation skills. I also learned how to conduct user interviews and how to ensure a solution actually solves a real world problem.

What advice would you offer to students thinking about pursuing co-op or internship?

I would recommend any student to go on a co-op or internship because it will let you apply your skills to real world problems. It will also give you a better understanding of what is available in your field. The connections you gain through co-op/internship are extremely valuable to your career.