Test Analyst Profile

Olivia’s Story in Software Testing

Olivia Curran graduated with a BSc in Interactive Multimedia Design and after doing some research she decided she would like to build her career in IT. Finding most graduate schemes extremely competitive, she was looking for some extra training, and was considering a PGCE until she found out about FDM’s training and employment programme. Olivia entered the FDM Academy programme in September 2010 and began her first placement in November, working with FDM’s client HSBC in Sheffield:

“I attended a careers fair and spoke to some FDM representatives, after which I did some research and decided to apply. I was inspired by each individual’s experience and impressed by the opportunities FDM could provide me with. The opportunity to kick start my career, to meet new people, to take part in a first class training program and to move to a new place seemed very exciting to me. It was an opportunity not to be missed!

I had no previous experience of Software Testing but due to the training I received at FDM I was able to gain the desired skills and knowledge to become a professional Test Analyst. During my time at FDM I also completed and obtained my ISEB ISTQB Foundation Certificate in Software Testing.

I got placed with HSBC and during my time here I have carried out manual web-based testing, attended weekly project meetings, written and executed test scripts, logged defects, jointly prepared a user guide based on a section of the project I was testing, and I have set up test data.

Currently I am really enjoying my position with HSBC, they are a good company to work with. I have had the chance to work with a range of different people, working independently and as part of a team. Everyday provides me with an opportunity to learn something new and HSBC’s staff arrange great nights out (we recently went to a comedy club), and Project Team get-togethers. The social aspects provide me with the chance to meet and get to know the people there better.

I have already recommended friends to FDM. From the day I arrived in the FDM Manchester Office I received a warm welcome – I genuinely loved my time there. I have made some amazing friends, a lot of whom I work with at HSBC, and some who got placed elsewhere. However, we all keep in contact and see each other on a regular basis arranging fun activities such as bowling, nights out and even doing laser quest.

Without FDM I would probably be still working as a part-time shop assistant and filling out an unknown amount of job applications – It is unlikely that I would have been working as a Software Test Analyst for a company such as HSBC, and for this I am very grateful.”