Catriona

Can you describe in a few sentences what your job involves?

I take the work of the designers and use this to build prototypes. We use a mixture of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to structure websites and bring designs to life. You're crafting the experience of how an end user will see, feel and interact with a final product. So, it's a very interesting and rewarding job!

What's been your most rewarding project?

As a GA, lots of the work I'm doing involves a great deal of learning and exploring new concepts. My first real taste of project work involved shadowing on the Consumer Scotland project. I got to learn the ins and outs of Storm's development routine and contribute code to a real project. So, I'd say that was an incredibly rewarding experience for me!

What challenges you most in your role?

How much there is to learn! I joined Storm with minimal knowledge of front-end development. I've already learned a lot but there's always something else to explore! It's as exciting as it is challenging. But this is also what motivates me to keep trying. That, and the support from colleagues. It helps to be around intelligent and experienced people who are always happy to help fill any gaps in my knowledge.

What makes you excited to come to work?

The chance to overcome whatever challenges the day holds. I always come out on the other side with more knowledge than I started with! Also, being able to work alongside a great team of people.

What career path did you take to get here?

I studied Psychology, but realized it wasn't my calling in life! I worked in a boarding kennel for a few years while I found another path to follow. Since I've always loved using my creativity, I took on freelance art projects in my free time. During this time, I found an interest in front-end development as a hobby. So, I decided to pursue it as a career through a self-taught route. Then I found Storm's Graduate Apprentice program. I knew it could be an incredible opportunity for me, so I applied, and I'm so happy I did!

How do you find the work-life balance at Storm?

As a Graduate Apprentice, I juggle work, university studies, and other life commitments. So, life can get busy!
Storm has been incredibly understanding and willing to accommodate. They are flexible when it comes to the hours I work, which allows time for outside commitments.

Being able to work from home on a hybrid model has also been a huge benefit for me. Since I live in Glasgow, it saves me so much time commuting!

What do you enjoy most about life at Storm?

There's a great attitude toward collaboration at Storm. Everyone's always ready to lend a helping hand!
The creative team also has monthly in-person meetings and team lunches. This is a great way to connect with the team and add a social aspect back into work life - especially after the increase in remote working post-pandemic!

How have you grown at Storm?

Storm has really encouraged me to pursue both my personal and professional development. Even in these early stages, my team was extremely supportive. They offered me opportunities to tackle projects that challenged me. But I've also had the space to pursue personal projects of interest while I'm learning. It's helped both my professional skills and my confidence grow a great deal!

Do you have any hidden talents or interesting hobbies?

I'm an artist - inspired by anime/cartoon-style art. It's a long-time hobby that led me to take on freelance commission work for a while. I'm also pretty good at rhythm games and take a keen interest in alternative fashion!