We caught up with Sud to hear about his experience working in the Neurotech Group at TTP.
Tell us a little bit about your background.
I graduated from The University of Southampton with a degree in Electronics Engineering. I’ve always had an interest in electronics. Initially, it was a hobby, but I eventually found myself spending my summers doing placements at an aerospace company that I got in touch with through the Arkwright Engineering Scholarship scheme. For a while this worked well for me but I eventually realised that this wasn’t what I wanted in the long term. Following this, I found myself working in a zoo setting up camera traps for lizards, and using some computer vision techniques to help them automate parts of the job. This was fun, but the opportunities for engineering/technical work were limited.
When it came to applying for graduate jobs, what stood out to you about TTP?
At first, I was very unsure about what I wanted to get into. I went to university certain that I wanted to pursue a career in electronics, but by the end of it, I realised that this was perhaps a broader path than I had envisioned. This is where my interest in neuroscience and biology started and,realising this new interest, I selected modules that allowed me to explore this further. It’s at this stage that TTP came in. Whilst searching for various keywords along this 'neuroscience' theme TTP was suggested; they were looking for people with an interest in neuroscience and despite having little knowledge or experience of consulting and neuroscience the opportunity interested me. I now work in the Neurotech group, a specialised department of a broader Healthtech group, at TTP.
How did you find the application process?
Quite refreshing! In many instances, the application process can feel impersonal and that you’re just being judged based on forms you’ve filled in, but with TTP it felt much more personal. My experience began with a relaxed 45-minute conversation where I spoke to a friendly team member (now my colleague), this allowed me to find out about the role and the company. Leaving this call my interest had been piqued and I’d successfully secured a technical interview. Throughout the process, I spoke to around 6 people 1:1; this personal approach provided me with a great understanding of the culture at TTP and what I could expect from life at the company. I found that this high level of interaction made the process an enjoyable one.
How did you find the transition from being a student to entering the world of work?
Quite smooth actually, this was probably due to a combination of having completed summer internships previously and the project-based nature of my work at TTP. Although in my early days starting on pre-established projects took a bit of catching up and getting up to speed, I find that now, getting involved in projects from the very beginning, I understand the processes much better. It’s also reassuring to work with a team on fresh projects, the environment is supportive as we’re all having to learn new things and figuring them out together.
Where do you think you’ve grown the most?
Having the ability to get into the business mindset. At TTP, people are constantly discussing the state of the market, where we should go next, and looking at the bigger picture – this isn’t something you do too much of at university. Spending time here has inspired me to become more engaged in these conversations, to look at things in a wider context, and to take more interest in expanding my knowledge.
What are some of your day-to-day responsibilities in your role?
My role varies a lot here. My first few months involved getting up to speed on live projects, understanding what had been done and how I could support in overcoming any technical issues. This meant experimenting in the labs to discover how I could fix these problems. I’m now more involved with new projects, seeing them through from start to completion. These days it’s crazy how quickly time passes, without knowing it I’ll be 2 months into a project ordering elements, testing concepts, and addressing
issues. Clients are also a great focus of mine, I have to keep them informed throughout the project, providing them with regular update calls and presentations to ensure their needs are being addressed.
What’s been your favourite thing about working at TTP?
The variety – there are so many live projects which means I can explore many different areas and have the flexibility to choose what I want to work on.
How would you describe the TTP culture?
Refreshing! The work environment is dynamic and things don’t feel prescribed, we don’t have set ways of doing things meaning there is autonomy to bring your different perspective and approach to tasks. Although this can come with its disadvantages, all in all, I think it’s a good thing.
What advice would you give to other students in your position?
There are so many opportunities out there, but there’s also a lot of trade-offs to make. Choosing a job can seem like such a huge decision, so thinking about your priorities can help to guide you in the right direction. It might be that you’re willing to move across the country for a job, or you may want to stay close to home. It’s a daunting decision to make so do your research on what’s out there, think about what you’ll enjoy, and just go for it.
Once you’re there, make the most of it. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people, get to know them, and find out about what they do as this could lead to you getting involved in something new. Also, I think that having the confidence to ask for what you want is important, you never know what exciting opportunities could come from it.
If you're inspired by Sud's story and want to follow in ther footsteps - check out TTP's profile.