BA (Honours) Business Analytics Lottie Gudger spent a year on placement at global tech firm IBM — and it led to her dream graduate job. ‘I’ve always been inspired by technology. We use it in every area of our lives and it’s always evolving. I obviously knew about IBM, but it wasn’t until I spoke to them at a Sheffield Hallam placement fair that I thought about working for them.

‘When it came to applying for the placement, there was so much support available. My academic supervisor went through my CV with me, we had time in our seminars to work on our applications, and my lecturers were always ready to answer any questions I had.

‘When I was interviewed by IBM I was able to talk about how I worked with a real client in my second year. I also gained some extra qualifications at Sheffield Hallam which helped me stand out from the crowd.

‘On placement I was part of the team that manages the electronic staff records for the NHS. At first it was nerve-racking, but the practice I’d had on my course really helped when I was meeting with the client.

‘At the end of my placement I successfully applied for a graduate job at IBM, working as a business consultant in cloud application development in Manchester. It’s perfect — it brings together my interest in business and my passion for technology. I love being able to make a difference by solving clients’ problems.

‘At every stage I’ve been really well supported by Sheffield Hallam. I’ve developed more than just academic skills. It’s such a practical and applied university — you’re constantly developing employability and interpersonal skills without even realising it.