Doing it for real.

Joseph Broughton, who’s studying at Truro College, joins TouchByte for a week of work experience.

We sat down with Joseph at the end of his week to find out more about his experiences. What did he learn?

Tell me a little bit about you, Joseph.

I’m in my second year in Truro College, studying A level maths, further maths, physics and computer science.

I’ve always liked maths. Logical thinking is more my thing than creativity. I’ve always had a flare for maths and problem solving. Computer science was a “why not” kind of subject - I didn’t have any experience in it, or any expectations for what it would be. 

I thought I’d give it a go, and had no expectations or experience. This has lead me to apply to universities to study Computer Science at BA level.  

Why did you choose TouchByte for your work experience?

TouchByte came on to my radar because I went to a Cornwall House event and met Harrison, TouchByte’s lead software developer. 

I thought he was really interesting (and cool), so planned to do work experience with him for December 2021. Covid got in the way a number of times, but we got there in the end!

Working with TouchByte has given me a real world experience of office and working life - like getting up early and getting into an office first thing in the morning. 

It’s been great to give me a better idea of what it’s like to work in a software/techy role. 

It’s taught me how to plan and structure my day, to get something done by lunchtime or the end of the day. It doesn’t always go to plan, but it’s good to have a plan in the first place. 

“Computer science is such a broad thing. It’s a maths subject, but it’s also a kind of art - you can do so many things with it. Equally, you can be into computer science and not be into programming.” 

I particularly enjoyed when Harrison talked me through how facial recognition actually works.

Joseph and Harrison, our lead software developer, learning key skills about coding and computer programming.

What’s it been like working with Harrison?

He’s great. He’s obviously so passionate about what he does, and it’s really cool being in an environment with someone who’s equally as excited by what they do as you are. 

I felt as though I could ask him anything and really get involved. 

He made me a Trello board to organise the week. We had a good idea of what we wanted to do and achieve - it would’ve been good to have more time!

“Trying things and them not working, are equally as valuable as them working first time.”

I would definitely come back to do more work experience. 

We’re always keen to welcome students into the company for work experience - but get in quickly, as time is limited and there can be a fair amount of competition!

It doesn’t have to be tech based, either. We’re more than happy to offer business development, marketing, and communications work experience placements.

For more information, contact Ellen, our Head of Marketing: ellen.orourke@touchbyte.co.uk