A Day in the Life of a Software Developer Co-Op

Curious about what it's like to be a Software Developer Co-Op? Dive into a conversation with Syed Ahmed, to uncover some of the finer details.

How would you best describe your role?

As a software developer co-op at MappedIn, I work on exciting products and features every day using cool technologies. My role involves collaborating with team members as well as working independently to deliver features and improvements. I also learn a lot from code reviews and by listening to and contributing in team meetings where we discuss and plan upcoming work.

What does your typical workday look like?

Morning:

In the morning, the first thing I do is check emails and Slack for any important messages that need my attention. After that, I plan out my day, usually focusing on the current project I'm working on. I find it helpful to type out step-by-step notes for my tasks, as this gives me clear direction. Around 10 AM, we have our team standup meeting, where I give my daily update and ask for help if needed, ensuring I get support early in the day.

Afternoon:

I find that afternoons are my most productive time of the day. This is when I can focus on completing tasks and work through the checklist I created in the morning.

My go-to lunch is:

The most common lunches for me are getting a plain salad with yogurt and some fruit, making some eggs with toast, or getting a nice shawarma plate! Mozy’s is my go-to shawarma place!

What skills or technologies are you focusing on developing during your co-op?

In terms of skills, I’ve made it a goal over this term and previous ones to focus on developing my soft skills, particularly collaboration and communication. I've been working on improving how I work effectively in a team and on asking questions more clearly. I've learned that translating complex technical questions into straightforward language can be challenging, but it gets easier with practice.

This term, I've also been concentrating on enhancing my technical skills in front-end development, specifically with React and TypeScript. Working on more complex features has given me deeper insights into these technologies and has significantly contributed to my learning.

What’s the work-life balance like in your role?

One of the things that stood out to me during my first term at MappedIn is the amazing work-life balance. The flexibility to choose between working remotely or in the office is fantastic—it saves a lot of time if you have a long commute. Even if you prefer working remotely, as I do, I highly recommend going in-person on some days. The office environment is great and adds a valuable dimension to the work experience.

What do you enjoy most about Mappedin?

If I had to pick one thing, it would definitely be the people. The staff here are incredibly friendly, supportive, and approachable. It’s a fantastic experience because of the positive and welcoming atmosphere they create.

How has this co-op experience influenced your career goals?

My co-op experience at Mappedin has profoundly influenced my career goals. It’s made me realize just how much I enjoy software development and has solidified my commitment to pursuing it long-term after graduation. The work I’ve done here has deepened my passion for coding and problem-solving, and I can see myself thriving in this field well into the future. This experience has not only confirmed my interest but also inspired me to continually grow and advance in the world of software development.

What advice can you give to other students about finding a co-op placement?

In pursuing developer positions, the most crucial aspect is to build yourself up through personal projects and by tackling challenging assignments early on. Engaging deeply with the technologies you use and understanding their fundamental workings is transformative and crucial for long-term success. This deep dive into the core principles of software development not only enhances your technical proficiency but also sets you apart in a competitive field.

Once you've laid this strong foundation, focus on perfecting other key elements of your career development. Craft a compelling resume that highlights your achievements and skills, actively network with industry professionals to build valuable connections, and continually seek opportunities for growth and learning. It’s also important to stay updated with industry trends and advancements, as technology is always evolving. By combining deep technical knowledge with strategic career-building efforts, you'll position yourself for success in the software development field.

Interested in joining our team? Check out our careers page for current opportunities.