Dream job for IT graduate
Techno-savvy IT graduate Shaun Squires has always been wired to work with computers.
"Technology and computers have always interested me. I decided to study a Bachelor of information technology and focus on the programming side of computers."
Tim says his three years at Otago Polytechnic were very positive and rewarding.
"I really enjoyed my time at the Polytech. The highlight would be my final year project working with three other talented students on a business concept. We got an award for the project with the most commercial potential."
This business concept was based on the development of an interactive guitar tuition software, Jam Sessions, which teaches people how to play the guitar. The group has now signed up with Upstart Business Incubator, a not-for-profit organisation focused on helping innovative businesses in Otago which have the potential to grow quickly.
With the "awesome support" from his tutors, Shaun also applied for a Dunedin internship programme at Software Development Company, Enabling. He must have made quite the impression, now working there on a full-time contract.
"I completed two months as an intern, and then continued on a short term contract, and now I’m working as a full-time software developer. I was so lucky to land a dream job before I had even graduated."
The Dunedin Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Internship Programme was launched by the Dunedin ICT Business Cluster in conjunction with Otago Polytechnic and the University of Otago.
"The internship involved several weeks of on-the-job training, followed by work developing software and meeting clients. The experience enabled me to develop a host of practical skills."
In the future, Shaun hopes to further his development skills and continue to embrace new technologies.
"I would like to start my own development company specialising in interactive applications, websites and games."