Christopher Menon

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Vodafone

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

Since graduating just over a year ago I’ve been working at Vodafone as a Graduate Software Engineer, contributing to the full-stack development of internal business applications. I’ve also started volunteering as a Trustee of a local multi-academy trust.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

In my job, I really enjoy the opportunity to have an impact and constantly work to improve the experience for those who use our platforms. It’s always very satisfying when customers are able to use our platforms easily and seamlessly. And as a charity trustee, I really enjoy the unique opportunity to have a strategic impact on the education of over 1,400 young people and develop valuable skills and professional relationships that I wouldn’t be able to in my job.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

Contemporary Choir, Cool Runnings, and Exeter Students’ Guild Trustee Board.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

Studying Biology and Computer Science through the Flexible Combined Honours programme, I most enjoyed the unique opportunity to study two different subjects and develop a breadth of knowledge across both disciplines. I also enjoyed the opportunity to complete an industrial placement year, enabling me to graduate with a year’s professional experience under my belt.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Do an industrial placement year! Not only was it a brilliant opportunity to gain some professional experience, but it also enabled me to try out new things and refine what I’d like to do in my career. And if you’re interested in becoming a charity trustee or school governor then try and get involved with local schools or charities, apply to join the Students’ Guild Trustee Board, or engage with national organisations such as Getting on Board and the Young Trustees Movement.

What are your plans for the future?

Going forward, I’m eager to secure a permanent role as a full-stack software engineer at the end of my graduate programme as I’ve really enjoyed work I’ve been doing. I’m also keen to continue volunteering as a trustee and giving back to the community in this way.