University of Birmingham and Capgemini Community Challenge

 

An exclusive opportunity not offered at any other university in the UK, the Community Challenge is one of the most exciting opportunities on offer to undergraduates.

In teams, you'll make a real difference to a Shropshire charity. You’ll work with them to understand their challenges and deliver real-life solutions. Whether it’s creating a marketing strategy or helping a charity overcome its IT or fundraising challenges, this is the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself and learn new skills.

Hear from students who took part in Capgemini 2023 in the video below:

Video transcript

Community Challenge dates

The Community Challenge is open for applications. The Community Challenge week will take place from Monday 10 June to Friday 14 June 2024.

You must be available for the whole week during working hours. There’s also a compulsory team building session on Thursday 6 June, 12pm- 4pm, in Birmingham.

Transport between the Edgbaston campus and Telford will be provided, along with breakfast and lunch all week.

About Capgemini

Capgemini is a global leader in partnering with companies to transform and manage their business by harnessing the power of technology. It is a responsible and diverse organisation of over 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. The Group reported in 2023 global revenues of €22.5 billion.

Capgemini is part of Valuable 500, a global network of CEOs committed to the inclusion of individuals with visible and hidden disabilities. In the UK, Capgemini holds a Disability Confident Employer Badge, which recognises our commitment to supporting team members with disabilities.

Recognition via The Birmingham Award

By taking part in the Capgemini Community Challenge, you will be eligible to declare your participation through The Birmingham Award, the University's recognised employability award. If you are looking to take part in the Professional Development Module, you will also be able to use this experience as your placement.

Who can apply

First, second, and penultimate year undergraduate students who study:

  • Business (Accounting and Finance, Business Management, Economics, etc.)
  • Computer Science
  • Engineering (Civil, Electronic, Mechanical, etc.)
  • Maths
  • Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, etc.)

Students studying other degrees with a minor in one of the above can also apply.

The challenge is not open to final year or postgraduate students.

How to apply

All you need to do is complete the digital interview. The deadline to apply is Sunday 21 April at 11:59pm.

Digital interview questions

You’ll need to answer the following two compulsory questions:

  1. Why do you want to take part in the Community Challenge?
  2. What are your career aspirations?

You'll also need to answer only one of the questions below:

  1. If money was no object, how would you apply technology in a novel way to benefit society?
  2. Which of Capgemini’s values do you relate to most and why? Our values are honesty, boldness, trust, freedom, fun, modesty, and team spirit. 

You have one attempt to record your answer to each question, so please prepare beforehand. You have up to 3 minutes to answer each question, but this is a limit and not a target. The best responses are concise, engaging, and showcase your personality.

After you’ve answered the digital interview questions, you’ll be asked to provide your subject and year of study.

You can practise your video interview skills by using our practice interview software and get further support from Careers Network.

If you have any questions which are not answered below please email recruiters@contacts.bham.ac.uk.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need for the digital interview?

We recommend using a laptop or desktop computer which has a webcam and microphone. Make sure you have a good internet connection and find a quiet place to complete the digital interview. 

Do I need to submit a CV?

No. All you need to do is complete the digital interview by Sunday 21 April at 11:59pm.

Will I get paid for the week?

We're providing this as an all-expenses paid, fully supported opportunity. Although you will not receive an actual wage per hour, food and travel will be provided and the experience will significantly boost your CV.

 

The challenge will also increase your chances of securing an internship or graduate role with Capgemini if you wish to apply in the future.

What hours will I be working?

Your 'working hours' will be from 9am to 5pm. A coach will leave campus at 7:30am every morning and bring you back by 6pm each day (7pm on the Friday).

What support is available?

You can prepare for the digital interview using our practice interview software.

If you have any other questions, email recruiters@contacts.bham.ac.uk.

You can also email the Community Challenge team at communityweek@capgemini.com

What happens if I have accessibility needs?

We’re committed to the inclusion of people with visible and hidden disabilities. If you have a question about accessibility or any specific requirements, email communityweek@capgemini.com.

What if I cannot do the digital interview?

If you cannot complete the digital interview for whatever reason, email communityweek@capgemini.com.

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