Career stories

Name: Chenyse Semper

Age: 26

How did you hear about the Infinity Works (IW) Academy programme?

In August 2020, I started a 12-week intensive data engineering course thanks to the partnership that existed between Generation and Infinity Works. Towards the end of the course, Lewis (the course Instructor) recommended that I apply to the Academy. 

What attracted you to apply for the IW Academy?

During the 12-week course, I got the opportunity to meet lots of IW employees. They came in to give talks, help with technical interviews, and even provide post-programme mentorship. Without fail, every IW person was extremely helpful and exceptionally cheerful. It made me think that Infinity Works would be a great place to work and that I’d get a lot of support as I started my career in tech. 

What were you doing before Generation?

I’d started my postgraduate degree in data analysis and was looking for opportunities to get practical experience in the world of data.

What were your career ambitions (and how did IW fit into this)?

Up until I started the data engineering course, I’d not considered a tech career. I thought that a computer science degree was a prerequisite, or that you needed to be naturally gifted at computers or be a maths whiz. However, as I was developing, practicing, and reinforcing the skills needed for entry into the tech sector, I realised that I had a passion for creative problem solving. I knew that I wanted to be in a career that allowed me to continually learn and think outside the box. Infinity Works offered me the opportunity to do this.

What did you enjoy most about your time with the Academy?

I really enjoyed meeting amazing people – all from different backgrounds and all with different skill sets. With everyone being so willing to share knowledge and offer their support, the Academy was a fun learning environment. 

What did you learn about becoming a successful consultant?

We spent quite a bit of time understanding different ways of working that would be “best practice” when working as a consultant. We also had the opportunity to put theory into practice throughout the Academy as we worked in 100% remote teams and needed to quickly adapt to an ever-changing environment. 

How have you found your first few months as a consultant at Infinity Works?

It has been an amazing journey full of unexpected surprises and major opportunities. My new team after leaving the Academy has been extremely supportive and I’m given the freedom to explore new ways of doing things, which is exciting! 

What words of advice would you give to someone starting this year’s Academy?

Firstly, stay curious; keep asking questions and challenging the status quo. Secondly, meet people. IW has a wide network and it’s even bigger now that we’re part of Accenture. Everyone is willing to help you along your journey. And finally, say yes to opportunities – even if they terrify you.