I’m Tara, I am currently working as a Data Insights Analyst in Analytics and Insights within Network Monitoring (Technology Service and Operations, CTO). I joined Virgin Media O2 in September 2023.
After finishing my degree in Pharmacology, I realised that I wanted to pursue a career in technology, and I found graduate schemes both suited to my experience when it came to applications and in giving me the opportunity to explore options. I applied to lots of different jobs and schemes and came across the Virgin Media O2 Technology Graduate Scheme. At the time of receiving an offer, I had an offer for a different grad scheme, but I was more impressed with the level of support and care the graduate scheme at Virgin Media O2 provided, as well as the competitive salary, and that prompted my final decision to join Virgin Media O2! I didn’t do an internship placement year during my time at university.
The Virgin Media O2 graduate scheme application was by far the easiest I had done. The initial steps were a relief compared to adjusting my CV and cover letter all the time. The communication throughout was really good. I have NEVER received feedback about my performance in interviews before, so this was a huge benefit for me.
There have been more varieties of roles than I had expected, CTO is so extensive, there is a lot more possibilities than you would expect. I came in with a pretty clear vision of what I wanted from the graduate scheme, which I have done quite well achieving so far, but I have also been surprised at the wider scope of opportunities and really see the benefit of trying completely new things.
When the placement opportunities were not as I expected, this prompted me to look outside the box and find my own opportunities. This helped me understand the business better, as well as building my own network.
Your personal network is so important! I probably underestimated the value of it before joining the company. The knowledge and insight I have gained through just having conversations with my colleagues as often as possible is unparalleled.
On the Technology scheme, former graduates organise a series of learning sessions about how Virgin Media O2 and telecommunications works with subject matter experts within the company. These sessions have taught me so much about the industry and new technical knowledge, it made me excited about telecommunications which coming from a biosciences background I didn’t even consider a possibility.
I have joined the Future Careers Committee as a Learning and Development rep during my time here. The committee organises a variety of sessions targeted towards Future Careers members (interns/apprentices/graduates) to enhance their experiences on programme. I have really enjoyed being part of the committee, both taking part in the sessions we organise, meeting a wider network of likeminded people and organising our learning sessions that have been very insightful!
