Ever wondered what it's like to work at Intel? During the first Intel FutureGen session, the cohort spoke to Intel about career opportunities and their involvement in esports. We sat down with Andrei, current Intel intern, to find out more about what he does on a day to day basis.
What are you studying and what is your role at Intel?
Currently studying a 4-year bachelor’s degree in Business Studies with Marketing, at Bournemouth University.
My current role at Intel is a Sales Support Intern, working with the UK Retail Sales Team.
You have previously participated in NSE tournaments, which one did you take part in?
In both of my two years at Bournemouth Uni, I was taking part in the NSE League of Legends Championships. (I believe we even came close to finishing top 3 in one season!)
How did you find the application process?
The application process was quite comprehensive (and quite rightly so), however, at the same time, it was one of the most exciting things I’ve ever been through.
In terms of the process, I found the opportunity & applied to it via my university’s local careers portal, however it can also be found here: Jobs at Intel
From applying with my CV, to the telephone interview, to then going inside the Head Office in Swindon to take part in the Assessment Centre activity, it was all part of a potential start to a great journey.
Do you have any advice for students interested in interning with Intel?
From a college perspective, I would say that no matter the degree you’re studying or currently interested in, Intel is a great place that can facilitate your interests as they offer a range of internship opportunities – from working with people in PR, HR, to sitting at the heart of the business and understanding processes in Sales/Accounting, and of course even technical roles working with the latest products.
From an Intel perspective, their vision, values, and purpose are very relevant in the world we live in today. They are active in promoting inclusion, diversity, and are heavily involved with helping the planet become greener! I would definitely suggest reading the articles below for further information:
Intel Values and Culture, Corporate Social Responsibility with Intel.
Intel are also deeply involved in the Esports industry, from sponsoring the famous IEM (Intel Extreme Masters), to their partnerships with ESL. Speaking from my experience, as a person who has always been passionate and involved in the Esports scene, I can confidently say that Intel is a great place to further explore and learn more about the industry from a business perspective.
Can you tell us what a standard day looks like for you?
To be quite honest, there isn’t really a standard day! One of the things I enjoy most about this role is how versatile and flexible it is – of course, you have the core tasks and responsibilities which you take care of on a regular cadence, but apart from that, you could be working on many different things outside of your day-to-day tasks.
Opportunities such as getting involved with various marketing campaigns, partnerships and external customers are some of the ones I have enjoyed taking part in. Campaigns such as Intel® Gamer Days and working with key stakeholders on the Marvel Avengers Bundle, as well as having the chance to be involved with marketing the new Intel® Evo™ brand have been just a few of the engaging highlights I’ve taken part in so far!
What’s been the highlight of your placement so far?
The highlight of my placement so far was having the opportunity to present some market data and insights that I had been working on, to my team.
At first it was a roller-coaster of emotions since presenting was never really a strength of mine (let’s be honest, who’s is!?), but with the right amount of prep time and support, It felt great to do something on top of your expected core responsibilities and tasks, in hopes of adding greater value to the team.
What challenges have you encountered in your role?
I think that prioritising and time management are two skills which are constantly being tested, especially during periods where there’s a lot of things going on at the same time.
It can get quite overwhelming if you don’t prioritise which tasks are more critical, and how long it would take you to complete them effectively.
On top of that, you have to be true to yourself and have the responsibility to sometimes say you’re too busy at the moment to take on anything else - I suppose that’s the hardest thing as I’d imagine everyone wants to make the best impression they can, but it’s important to not risk over-doing it in the process as well.
How have you found working remotely?
I think working from home has been something everyone has had to get used to, from the employer to the employee. Intel have supported me tremendously even before I officially started my internship with them back in July; from supplying everything I need, but also developing a virtual-onboarding induction period which was easy to follow and very well structured.
In terms of my experiences so far, they have been great given the circumstances. The positive things include the fact that I’m actually at home and reaping the benefits that you can all imagine come with it! Not having to worry about food, commuting in traffic, and wearing a full-on suit for meetings are just a few coincidentally convenient things that I’m enjoying.
On the other hand, I would say it has also been challenging for most interns including myself, as it would have been a great experience to have the opportunities to meet people face-to-face and take part in huge events (such as EGX). However, at the end of the day we are all in the same boat so-to-speak, and that means no one is at a disadvantage, we all just have to make do.
In terms of your passion for esports, have you found that has helped you with your academic/professional achievements in any way?
I would say that my passion for esports has developed some of my skill set which is used in both academic and professional environments from a younger age than I expected.
Ethics such as “always doing the best you possibly can” and “always trying to be consistent” are two things which have helped me massively from both an academic and career perspective.
There are many skills which intertwine between esports and anything academic/professional related, I suppose it’s just a case of not realizing it until you actually experience it.
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