Arpita's internship story at Nokia
Photo: Arpita Chiddarwar
Discovering the Opportunity
My internship journey began at a Tampere University job fair. While LinkedIn, JobTeaser, and networking were helpful, it was the personal interaction with the Nokia representatives at the fair that really set things in motion. The application process required patience and perseverance, but it was worth it.
Why Nokia?
Nokia's reputation as a multinational giant in technology was a major draw. The position offered matched my academic profile perfectly, and it was the first to extend an offer with suitable remuneration for a trainee role. The opportunity to work with a global leader in technology was something I couldn’t pass up.
A Day in the Life of a Trainee
My typical day was filled with meetings, including daily stand-ups and discussions on ongoing features. As a trainee, I was involved in product-related and new technology training. My tasks often involved testing and development, and I regularly sought guidance from my peers, which was always generously given.
Skills Acquired
During my internship, I significantly enhanced several skills:
- Testing Skills: Working on various testing items allowed me to deepen my understanding and proficiency.
- Professional Software Development: I gained practical experience in developing software in a professional setting.
- Scrum Methodologies: Understanding and applying Scrum practices was a key part of my learning.
Memorable Moments
One of the highlights was receiving compliments from other teams on my work. Additionally, the positive feedback from my team, which led to a contract extension, was incredibly gratifying and a testament to my contributions.
Academic and Career Impact
This internship was instrumental in advancing my academic journey, contributing 10 credits towards my master's degree. It reinforced my academic learning with practical experience and honed my professional skills.
My Advice to Aspiring Interns
For students considering a similar path, I recommend applying early, tailoring your resume for specific job roles, networking, and actively participating in career fairs. These steps are crucial in landing a meaningful internship.
Recommending the Internship
I definitely recommend an internship at Nokia. It's more than just a job; it's a stepping stone to a professional career, offering a glimpse into the working culture and an opportunity to build a professional network.