Are you looking for something productive to do in your free time, but have no ideas? Might I suggest completing a virtual internship. Doing an internship has countless benefits, but it isn’t always easy to get one.
However, a virtual internship has minimal prerequisites, and is completely free.
In this article, I review Verizon’s Cloud Computing virtual internship on the Forage platform. A little spoiler, for any aspiring Software engineers, this is the programme for you. So keep reading!
Why do a virtual internship?
For a complete breakdown on this, check out our article on doing a virtual internship.
What is this course?
This virtual internship allows you to step into the shoes of a Cloud Computing engineer (CCE) at Verizon. As part of it, you learn about the responsibilities a CCE has, and the type of day-to-day work they do
In this programme you will be helping Verizon secure their hypothetical VPN service. You will apply very basic python skills to run tests on this product, and ensure it meets the cloud-native traits i.e. redundancy, resiliency, and least-privilege.
This does sound a little complicated, but trust me it’s not. The representatives from Verizon walk you through everything. From introducing concepts comprehensibly, to giving you a step-by-step explanation of how to complete the task, they make sure you do not struggle.
Another important point to mention, this is a self-paced course. You won’t actually be interacting with Verizon’s staff. It is all in the form of videos. Though this isn’t the real thing, it’s still really good!
Skills you will develop
As mentioned, you will be required to test their hypothetical VPN service. They will provide you with the VPN’s code (it’s quite basic), and you will run some tests on it using the command prompt on your computer.
You don’t really need to be familiar with Python to do this. All you need to do is download the Python package, and they tell you everything else. So it’s a great way to get started with Python.
However, if you are comfortable with this language, it’s the perfect opportunity to see what professional Python code looks like. You can also try to decipher and understand the code they provide, which is a great learning opportunity.
Beyond the coding side, you will develop research skills. You will be required to do some research on methods for securing cloud-based applications. This was perhaps my favourite part of the course, as you understand that this field is extremely interesting. You will learn a lot of new things in your research like DDoS and Black hole routing.
“You’ll develop key skills in coding, research, concept demonstration, internal communication and what it’s like working in an agile environment.”
Who is this course for?
This course is really for anyone. Whether you’re interested in software engineering, or just exploring, this course is for you. There are no prerequisites. Just a bit of enthusiasm, and you’ll be fine!
As I mentioned, you don’t need any prior coding knowledge either. Since it’s on the Forage platform, it’s completely free too!
It is an extremely interesting programme, and it will definitely spark your interest in Verizon and the work they do.
More about Verizon
Verizon Communications Inc. is a leading American telecommunications company, known for providing wireless and wireline communication services. Verizon is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world
“At Verizon we’re proud to create the networks that move the world forward. This program will offer you unique insight into the cloud platform team at Verizon, how we use cloud technology and the types of skills you’ll develop as a cloud computing engineer on our team.”
Course Structure
The course is broken down into 4 tasks. Each tasks is interconnected, but explores new concepts. By the end, you get a good understanding of the type of work a CCE does, and the work culture at Verizon.
Task 1 (<30 mins):
- An introduction to the programme and Verizon. You will be introduced to the task at hand (testing their hypothetical VPN), and meet representatives of the company.
Task 2 (30 – 60 mins):
- Learn about the cloud-native traits that all cloud-based applications must adhere to.
- Download Python, and use the command line to run the program they provide you.
- You will then test this program (from the command line) to see if their VPN meets these traits.
- Then, you will submit your findings in a written form.
Task 3 (30 – 60 mins):
- You will learn how to effectively conduct research on technical subjects
- You will research ways to secure their VPN. This includes research on Network, Application and Data security
- You will then add your findings to their pre-made PowerPoint presentation
Task 4 (<30 mins):
- Finishing up
- A short quiz on everything you’ve learnt (quite simple)
- Tips on applying to Verizon, and the type of employee they’re looking for
As you can see, it’s quite a packed course. It isn’t too difficult, but it’s extremely interesting!
My favourite part
I will be completely honest, I thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the course. It really was brilliant from start to end. But my favourite part was definitely the research work.
Researching about cloud computing and methods of securing cloud-based applications broadened my understanding of the topic. I learnt about various things I’d never even heard of prior.
The researching task was brilliant to get me interested in this field. Also, as you will quickly understand when you start doing this task, research skills are probably the most fundamental requirements of a CCE.
Is the course worth doing?
If I haven’t been clear enough, once more never harms: This course is 100% worth doing. From the tasks, to helpful videos, this virtual internship will not disappoint.
By the end, you will be intrigued by this field more than ever before.
Don’t waste time, and go do this programme right now. I cannot recommend it enough!
Also, if you are looking for more online courses to do, and for free, I suggest checking out these articles:
