MyKindaFuture January E-Magazine

HIRED

EZINE

JANUARY 2017

ASSESSMENT CENTRES Give yourself the edge

INTERVIEWS WITH ACCENTURE AND THE BANK OF ENGLAND

DELOITTE EVENTS Get up close and personal at an insight day

POLICE NOW GRAD SCHEME Are you up for the challenge?

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CONTENTS Page 3

Welcome from the team

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Life as an Intern

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The Civil Service Fast Stream ‘Early’ & ‘Summer’ Diversity Internship Programmes

NATIONAL AWARD SPONSORS Lloyds Banking Group Society of the Year [Strathclyde Bright Futures] www.lloydsbankinggrouptalent.com

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Meet Intern Charlotte to find out what life is like at the Bank of England The perfect HR Internship with Arqiva’s 2017 programme 16 things every student can relate to in the winter semester Read Rachel’s Intern experience at Nestlé before applying for this summer!

Page 10 & 11

How to prepare for interviews with Ashurst

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Find out when Deloitte are coming to your campus to host a skills workshop

HSBC Event of the Year [Southampton Bright Futures] www.hsbc.com/careers/students-and-graduates

Tesco President of the Year [Strathclyde Bright Futures] www.tesco-earlycareers.com

KMPG Most Inclusive/Diverse Society [Bristol Bright Futures] www.kpmgcareers.co.uk

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Police Now Graduate Leadership Programme – applications closing!

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Advice from Accenture graduate Jonine on how to ace 2017

TUI Fastest Growing Society [Southampton Bright Futures] www.tuijobsuk.co.uk

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Read Honey’s interview on her experience in Lloyds’ IT Business Management Grad Scheme

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BP – tips for success throughout the application process

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How to survive an assessment centre with RPC

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DHL’s advice on how to make the most of your second term at University Life at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch through Intern Maame’s eyes

ARCADIS Newcomer of the Year [Glasgow Caledonian Bright Futures] www.arcadisukgrads.com

RPC Most Collaborative Society [Aston Bright Futures] www.rpc.co.uk/manifesto

Civil Service Fast Stream & Early Corporate Investor of the Year Civil Service Fast Stream www.faststream.gov.uk

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WELCOME

from the team Welcome to the first edition yourself for the hard work of Hired 2017! Happy New January has evoked. Then, get yourself ahead of the Year to you all. game and make sure you I hope the dreaded January submit your application for exam season went well and the summer of dreams, or you managed to ace each for the first steps into your and every one of them. The graduate career. end of this month marks the end of assessment stress Now even though summer and deadlines, and it’s time may feel like a million miles to celebrate your success – away, summer internships January’s e-magazine has are very much the rage throughout our featured just the thing. employers this month. Have The focus of this month is you considered gaining maximising your second invaluable experience in term of university, as well as a company’s office that highlighting the application represents your future deadlines to bear in mind career? Well, there are over when developing your 5 employers this month career this year. So, plan a that delve into what it’s like night out with friends, book taking part in an internship. yourself into a spa day or simply organise a relaxing If you are in the middle of movie marathon to reward exams and fighting to stay

motivated, here are 3 top tips to get you through…

1) Set concrete goals for your study session. Think of specific, achievable goals instead of vague generalities.

2) Think of a small way to reward yourself when you’ve met your goal...

3) Think of what you will achieve by studying.

I hope you enjoy this month’s magazine and good luck in any applications or interviews!

Lucy Godwin National Societies Manager

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Life as an Intern...

Part One

T

his time last year I was stuck in limbo.

The decision to take a placement or carry through to my final academic year became one of the hardest decisions. I know a lot of you would have already made up your mind by now, but not me I was a little daunted by the decision.

No doubt the application process can be stressful, frustrating, and a LOT of work. But after much consideration with friends who had cohsen not to do a placement, I looked at the positives in what a placement really could do for your character and learning in the long term.

Much of my decision making revolved around feedback from course mates and academics at my university. This encouraged and inspired me to apply for a role in Communications.

Studying Comms and Media left me with a few avenues to go down – Marketing, Advertising, Communications, or anything in digital. With so many roles and opportunities available, I was

Benefits of an internship - Develop the skills you already have and never thought you had - You become adaptable to any situation that you may think you could never do before - You learn the most important skill there is... to communicate - Time management (I was awful at this!)

- You are sure as ready to go back in your final year

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unsure and confused as to whether this was all too much hassle. Speaking to the right people changed this and I eventually found my way.

With help from the careers service and course friends, I knew I made the right decision in choosing a year out in industry because of all the benefits that followed.

Some of the downfalls can be the rejection through the application process. As someone who went through two rejections, this did not stop me. I was resigned to the fact that it was going to happen and I reminded myself that hundreds of people were probably applying to the same role. What did I do to overcome this? I made myself stand out. How? By being positive and confident in my communication and the way I presented myself.

So my advice in the application process is to‌ Be bold. Find your inner drive to tackle daunting things. Be ambitious, and share all your ideas – interviewers love new ideas!

Good luck!

Get your early insight into the Fast Stream by applying to our exciting Diversity Internship Programmes!

The Civil Service Fast Stream and EDIP application windows have now closed.

Congratulations to those who have been able to submit their applications and have passed the initial stages! Don’t worry if you’ve just missed these windows, you will be able to apply for the programmes again in Autumn 2017.

The Early Diversity Internship Programme

The Summer Diversity Internship Programme

This internship is available to first year undergraduates from diverse backgrounds. The 5-day placement in a government department gives you a valuable insight and understanding of what it’s like to be on the Fast Stream.

Students in their final/penultimate years of university or post grads immediately following their first degree still have until the 31st January 2017 to apply for the Summer Diversity Internship Programme.

“The EDIP was simply a fantastic eye-opening experience.

I would highly recommend this programme to my fellow university mates and many other first year university students as I think that they can benefit from taking part in such a competitive internship programme as the EDIP. They will have an understanding of what the assessment tests are like and develop transferable skills such as communication and problem solving.”

The multi-award winning Summer Diversity Internship Programme (SDIP) gives students from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to see what a career in the Civil Service is like. It puts talented undergraduates and graduates on a work placement in a government department. As a successful applicant, you’ll get an insight into the broad range of opportunities available across the Civil Service.

– Kuan Long Lam, EDIP Ambassador

You can check if you’re eligible to apply by clicking here.

Application Tips Have you already thought about applying for any of the internship programmes? Are you feeling nervous? Well, you can ease those nerves by knowing that the verbal and numerical online tests have been scrapped.

You will also be able to practice for the Situational Judgment Questionnaire by clicking on the hyperlinks found under the ‘Application Process’ > ‘Online Tests’ sections of each scheme page on the Fast Stream website.

To get an exclusive insight from our diversity internship ambassadors, tune into the live webinar taking place on Tuesday 24th January at 16:30 – 17:30 here.

We’ve got a lot of other exciting things to show you, and we hope you can’t wait to get started on applying to an exciting internship programme this year. For more information on the internship application process, please view our latest diversity brochure here.

The SDIP is a great way to prepare for a place on our Fast Stream graduate programme, which could lead to many different career paths at the heart of the UK Government.

Two months on the SDIP could change your life.

You can expect to get a real opportunity to make a difference and attend meetings with senior advisors on major issues.

FAST PASS: At the end of your placement, you’ll receive an appraisal report on your performance. A positive appraisal will fast track you through to the final stage of the Fast Stream selection process. You’ll also receive coaching to support you. This gives you an excellent chance of Fast Stream success.

“I was extremely happy to learn that I achieved all my objectives and was eligible for the Fast Pass, a coveted reward that fast tracks you to the Fast Stream Assessment Centre (FSAC) stage of the graduate schemes’ application process. I decided to apply this year and I am now waiting to attend Fast Stream Assessment Centre in 2017. I would definitely recommend the SDIP, as you do not need lengthy work experience to be successful in the application. The culture and the development strategy provided are an excellent introduction to working life and a great way to experience life on the Fast Stream.”

– Hayat Mohamed, SDIP Ambassador

You can check if you’re eligible to apply by clicking here.

For more information on the internship application process, please view our latest diversity brochure here.

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LIFE AT THE BANK OF ENGLAND Name: Charlotte Bull from Durham Studying: Mathematics Position: Resolution Directorate Intern What was the interview process like?

It tested a lot more than just writing and numeracy. There were group exercises that looked at your confidence and team working ability. In the interview itself, there was a real focus on your knowledge, motivation and personal experiences.

How much responsibility were you given?

It’s just the right amount. The Bank has given me challenges that suit my expertise and knowledge, and they look for opportunities to stretch me too. Some of the expected outcomes are quite ambitious, but I get plenty of support from the team around me.

“The more you know about the role and the institution, the better your application will be”.

What advice would you give to someone applying for your role?

I’d recommend doing your research. The more you know about the role and the institution, the better your application will be. It’s particularly important here, because the Bank of England is not like any other bank; it has a unique role in society, so your daily tasks can be very different to what you may have expected.

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Describe a situation where you surpassed expectations.

Since joining the Bank, I’ve been involved in many activities outside of my allocated workstreams. These have included being in our sports teams, singing in the choir, volunteering, and organising the RD away day.

I think my colleagues have been impressed to see me do this, alongside all of my daily work.

What was the atmosphere like in your team?

I work in a very inclusive environment. My team are open to me asking questions, and they’re always happy to help me develop my understanding. They are also sociable - we often have team lunches, and they’ve even established a football team for a few friendly matches.

Visit the Bank of England careers site to find about more about graduate roles and opportunities.

Looking for an Internship in HR this summer?

Look no further than Arqiva…

Interested in a HR Internship?

Join the Digital Revolution.

Summer Internship opportunities with Arqiva.

Connected. Always.

As an HR intern at Arqiva, you will experience a great working environment that enables millions of people and machines to connect wherever they are through TV, Radio, Mobile, WiFi and the Internet of things. A key focus for Arqiva is recruiting the best talent but also retaining it with rewards and career paths to develop brilliant and approachable leaders. Work with the Talent Lead in each business area or opt for a more HR-specific project, and experience a HR internship like no other. If you are enthusiastic, straight-forward and innovative with a down-to-earth manner towards collaboration, apply today.

Arqiva is all about connecting people. Our purpose is to connect people for an enriched and safer life. Surprised?

Don’t be. We’ve been working behind the scenes connecting people and organisations as they go about their everyday lives for 90 years.

Finance & HR related degrees. Specific to this year’s programme, we are offering an internship in Smart M2M where degrees in the Humanities, Science and Social Science will be considered, the emphasis being on communication, presentation skills and analysis.

We provide much of the infrastructure behind television, radio, satellite and wireless communications in the UK. In fact, our engineers led the largest broadcast engineering project in UK history with the successful completion of the switch over from analogue to digital in 2012. Major broadcasters, such as the BBC, ITV and BSkyB, as well as independent radio groups, depend on us to keep them connected to their customers.

We act responsibly through every connection we make and our values are important to us: we want our people to challenge themselves and each other to be ingenious, straightforward and collaborative. We’d look to you to help us build on our success.

Let us connect you to a great career with superb opportunities. We work in a changing marketplace and have an ambitious growth agenda, so if you want to help shape the future of technology, then this is the place for you!

We have a diverse range of summer internship opportunities in our various engineering teams in Terrestrial Broadcast, Satellite & Media, Telecoms WiFi, People & Organisation and Telecoms, Mobile & Fixed Networks. Specifically we look for those studying Engineering, IT, Physics, Maths or Telecommunications related degrees, although we sometimes offer a small number of internships for those studying Project Management, Business Management,

As part of our Summer Internship Programme you’ll receive a good salary and excellent development opportunities that will enable you to develop your wider skills and knowledge of the business.

Interested? You will need to be on track for a 2:1 in your degree or at least 280 UCAS points, have a passion for our values and a real appetite to make a difference.

The role is based across various UK locations including London, Yorkshire, Chalfont and Winchester.

We will ask you to prove that you are eligible to work in the UK. Please note that we are not able to sponsor work permits.

Interested in joining the Digital Revolution? Find out more about us please click here. To apply, please click here.

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16 things every uni student understands in winter semester 1. Milk stealers are literally the worst people in the world.

2. Sleep. Coffee. Study. Repeat = Life.

3. Those 200 articles your tutor thinks you have time to read online? No chance.

4. The sheer panic of realising you haven’t started an essay due in for tomorrow.

5. Getting up at 8:50, just in time for that 9am.

6. The almighty overdraft is the saviour of everything.

7. You have 15 essays, 4 assignments and 6 exams to study for but still can’t get up before midday.

8. Becoming addicted to a new TV series right when your deadlines are due.

9. When you spend more time writing the bibliography than the actual essay.

10. Procrastinating. I mean, do I really need to study right this minute? Just. One. More. Video.

11. The 39p energy drink from the student shop is your holy grail.

Best served with Wikipedia in the library at 4am.

12. Why is group work even a thing? One person does all the work and the rest share the credit.

13. Finding out each lecture is up to £200, but still not going because attendance doesn’t affect your grade.

14. Living off pasta for the week... only to buy those new trainers you wanted.

15. Feeling slightly guilty for booking a holiday with your mates with your overdraft. Again.

16. Because, hey, being a student is basically a synonym for being broke.

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No Summer plans yet?

Our structured 10-week Summer Internship is an experience that could last you a lifetime...

If you’re in your penultimate year of university, we can offer you exposure to some of the world’s biggest and best-known brands, and provide many different opportunities to learn and develop your skills to start building your career.

Join our Summer Internship programme from June to August and you will be assigned a relevant project, that you'll work on under the mentorship of your allocated line manager, which will have real value to the business. Success could lead to an opportunity to join our Graduate programme.

We offer Summer Internships in a variety of functions, each enabling you to gain hands-on experience in the world's leading nutrition, health and wellness company and to develop valuable skills.

Rachel started her Nestlé career as an Intern.

Apply now to follow in Rachel’s footsteps.

Find out more about careers with Nestlé at www.nestleacademy.co.uk

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WHAT

MOVES

Graduates in Law

YOUR MIND?

Human rights. Technological advancement.

International relations. Whichever way you look, there are big challenges ahead.

The way you think will help shape the future – so what hot topics move your mind? Ashurst are on the look out for passionate students with a new way of thinking, so if you can talk for 90 seconds on a subject that moves you, you could win one of three internships at one of our offices in Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Madrid, Melbourne, Singapore or Sydney.

Competition opens 24th October 2016 and closes 24th February 2017.

To enter, visit

careers.ashurst.com/moveyourmind

AshurstTrainees

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Preparing for interviews Know yourself •

Review what the firm is looking for (i.e. their competencies). Do you have good examples to talk about for each one?

•

Review your application form. Especially if you made lots of applications and/or it was a while ago. At Ashurst, the content of your application forms the basis of your interview.

Know the firm •

What’s their position in the market?

Who are their clients, core practice areas and competitors?

•

SWOT away the stress: have you thought about the firm’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats?

•

•

Know what you want to get out of the process and questions to ask at the end •

Questions at the end are for you but can impress too. Ask about the future of the firm, the strategy and hot topics at the partner conference.

•

You’ll probably get to meet a trainee so use them to get under the skin of the firm’s culture.

Ask them about their last really great day, their worst and the support they receive.

You can’t prepare for everything •

Most firms will be looking to see how you perform under pressure and will test you on topics you likely won’t have been able to prepare for. Do not panic; take your time, don’t be afraid to be wrong, try to think around the issue and remember that sometimes the obvious answer is the right one.

•

You might be asked your opinion on an issue.

Can you defend your position and will you accept that you may be wrong? Don’t be afraid to hold your ground if you can back up your argument.

Check out the recent news. Any rumblings of game-changing mergers, big client wins or partner hires?

Know why you want to work for the firm •

•

Do you know why you are applying to that firm?

If you don’t, you’ll come unstuck. Remind yourself why they meet your career criteria.

Think about the commonalities between the firms you’ve applied to. Can you identify from them the sort of firms you’re attracted to? If you’re struggling to find similarities then you might need to rethink.

Think about your presentation and how you come across •

Dress professionally and be well groomed; your interviewer will want to be able to picture taking you to a client meeting a few years down the line.

•

You will be nervous, that’s to be expected, but think about your body language. Tone down the ear scratching, arm waving and hand rubbing as this will distract your interviewer.

Maintain eye contact and smile; this will help you to remain calm and composed.

We have opportunities for all law and non-law students and graduates – from first year to final year and beyond.

Applications opened on 1 September for our winter vacation scheme, summer vacation schemes and our first year programme, Ahead with Ashurst.

Applications opened on 1 October for September 2019 and March 2020 training contracts. Closing dates vary and we recruit on a rolling basis. Please visit our website for more information.

Begin now at careers.ashurst.com

What impact will you make?

Apply now for your chance to spend a half day at one of Deloitte’s UK offices.

This is a highly interactive day, providing job application workshops, a Deloitte Q&A session and a networking lunch.

As well as hearing from the local teams about the work they do and what makes each location unique, you’ll find out about the full range of opportunities that Deloitte offers across Audit & Finance, Business & Financial Advisory, Cyber, Governance Risk & Regulation, Human Capital, Real Estate, Strategy & Operations, Tax Consulting and Technology.

For the curious deloitte.co.uk/graduates 12

Glasgow 110 Queen Street, Glasgow 7th February

Aberdeen 1 Union Wynd, Aberdeen 9th February

Manchester 2 Hardman Street, Manchester 21st February

Leeds 1 City Square, Leeds 23rd February

London 66 Shoe Lane, London 28th February

Reading Abbots House, Reading 2nd March

How much of an impact could you make in a community?

At Police Now our mission is to transform communities by reducing crime and increasing the public’s confidence in the police. We’re looking to recruit and develop outstanding graduates for our two-year programme to be leaders in society and on the policing frontline. Applications for 2017 are currently open online at www.PoliceNow.org.uk.

It’s an experience like no other. As a Police Now participant, you get real hands-on experience at negotiating, planning, decision-making, problem-solving and leading, all while making a genuine difference to your local community. In addition, you have the opportunity to intern with one of our corporate partners during your second year.

Whether you decide to stay in policing or move away after your two years, you will take invaluable skills and experience with you that will not only enrich the organisation you move to but will also help the police and its partners work together more effectively in the future.

As our application deadline approaches, it’s not too late to submit yours to Police Now. Read more about our eligibility criteria and how to apply here. Remember to be yourself at every stage of the application process and along with showing us the skills you have, show us about your passion for public service.

To give you a taster of what it’s like in the shoes of a Police Now officer, you can experience IMPACT. There are six interactive challenges all based on real-life case studies. Your mission is to use your observation and problemsolving skills to reduce crime and increase public confidence in each situation. The extreme strategy is not always the most appropriate – think of long-term, effective solutions.

Like Police Now on Facebook to keep updated with our latest news.

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2017. The year of the Rooster.

The year of you. With some tips from me.

By Jonine, a recent grad at Accenture As a 2016 graduate, I know only too well how tough it can be going back to university in January.

The holidays are over, it’s freezing outside and everything is looking a bit glum. Perhaps, like me, you socialised and relaxed over the festive break at the expense of your applications, revision and your dissertation. Don’t fret, it’s now 2017, a brand new year and a clean slate. What’s more, it’s the Chinese year of the Rooster which symbolises confidence and motivation. This is exactly what you need to have to get the most out of this next month and the rest of the semester.

At this time of the year, I was definitely overwhelmed with all that I had to do. I made an Excel spreadsheet to track graduate job applications I had completed/were in-progress and yet to do against their deadlines. I then highlighted those I really wanted, which removed more than 5 schemes off my list that weren’t right for me. This left me way more time to spend on revision, my dissertation and to put into applications for those jobs I genuinely wanted. Prioritisation is key during this semester, so don’t worry if you feel like you have too much to do right now, channel your inner rooster and get organised!

It is equally important to prioritise yourself and your own health and wellbeing too and so, in the second semester I joined a gym and the tennis club. This was ‘me time’ and really helped give me structure to my day and alleviate any stresses. Not only did joining a new club help me meet lots of new people and build my network, but it was a great thing that I could talk about in interviews too! I ended the semester with great memories and a real sense that I had made the most of it.

You now have half an academic year left, it’s up to you how it plays out - good luck roosters!

To hear from more of our recent graduates visit: Graduate Blog

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From Interior design at Loughborough University to IT at Lloyds Banking Group...

Honey shares her career story so far.

Name: Honey Akinola Programme: IT Business Management Graduate Programme Degree & University: Product Design Engineering, Loughborough University What did you want to be when you were at university?

What are your strengths and passions? Do you use these in your day to day role?

When I was at university I wanted to be a car interior designer, because I like designing products to be functionally attractive and was enticed by the lifestyle.

I’m really (overly, obsessively) organised and like to have order in my working patterns. This has allowed me to keep up to date with all my work and ensure that I can meet my deadlines.

Why did you choose to work at Lloyds Banking Group?

After I completed a placement in the manufacturing industry I realised that it wasn’t for me. I’d always had an interest in technology and finance so I thought working in a retail bank was the right choice. I chose Lloyds Banking Group because of the importance they place on simplifying the financial sphere for their customers. As a graduate I knew I would be pushed not only to do what was best for me, but to work for the benefit of others.

What has surprised you about your programme and the organisation, since joining?

I’ve been impressed by the number of opportunities I’ve had to get involved in additional events and initiatives on top of my day job. There’s so much more to it, from graduate events to those put on by the variety of Lloyds Banking Group diversity networks. Enrichment and development can be found all over the Group and I’m being encouraged by my line manager to explore all opportunities.

What have you discovered about yourself so far?

I really enjoy tasks that require me to interact with people and figure out how I can use my skills to help them. Initially I was quite nervous to do this but as I’ve been getting into it I really enjoy it and hope to use this skill in the future more. I’ll definitely try and shape my future placements around this.

We have a range of Graduate programmes and Internships to suit a variety of people. Discover more about our IT Business Management Internship and others at www.lloydsbankinggrouptalent.com

How would you describe the culture and working environment?

I believe there is a very open working culture at Lloyds Banking Group; everyone is encouraged to explore their interests and shape their career in the way that best fits them. Because of this, and the promotion of agile working, people have the opportunity to shape their working hours around their life.

What does day to day look like in your role?

My tasks change from day to day, depending on the desired outcomes of the projects I’m working on. I’m currently working in Offshore and Supplier Management so I work on the segmentation of suppliers, their treatments standards and also license management for the software we own as a Group. I also have my own suppliers that I am working with to take them through the Supplier Qualification Process.

As well as this I help manage colleague engagement within our team, listening to feedback and helping to put actions in place to ensure everyone is working to their best and feels motivated at work.

What has been your main highlight whilst working at Lloyds Banking Group?

So far my main highlight has been the personal development goals that I get the opportunity to work on with my manager. I know that I’m not the most confident or self-assured person but so far I’ve been pushed to step out more and I can already see changes in my behaviour both inside and outside of work.

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BP is one of the world’s leading integrated oil and gas companies. Whether you’re starting a career in business, engineering, science or supply and trading – there’s an opportunity for you at BP. Here’s our advice on how to be successful during the application process.

During our application process you’ll complete an application form, competency and technical interviews as well as attending an assessment centre. Each step is designed to make it easier for you to showcase what you can contribute to BP.

Here are a few of our hints and tips...

1. Be yourself

3. Practice makes perfect

If you’re thinking of applying, remember that we are looking for people with different talents and unique qualities. Throughout the process, have your main strengths at the forefront of your answers. We really want to see your passion for the role and for the company.

Though nerve-wracking, it’s important to remember that interviews are a two way process. We’ll ask about your experience and skills, but it’s also the chance for you to understand if the role and company are right for you. Be up to date with your CV and practice any examples you have of responses to previous work situations.

2. Research and reflect Before you begin your application form, research BP and our five core values. Be clear regarding your motivation in applying for the role, and our company. This first impression allows us to see who you are – we want to learn about your academic achievements and extra-curricular activities to see how they can be applied to your role.

4. Apply yourself Don’t be phased by the assessment centre.

Be yourself and show off your teamwork skills. You’ll participate in a group exercise and individual presentation so be sure to make yourself heard but don’t overpower your group.

Find out more about graduate careers with BP here.

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How to survive an assessment centre Graduate employers design their own assessment centres to test for skills and aptitudes that are right for their own organisations, but they typically contain similar elements and exercises. Most firms are likely to tell you what to expect in advance of the day but they may not go into very much detail so be prepared for any eventuality and think about all the possibilities.

How to prepare and succeed at an assessment centre

Research the firm or company thoroughly

Eat a hearty breakfast before the assessment centre starts

Use your careers service and attend mock interviews and assessment centres Be confident, positive and think of ways to stay calm and manage those nerves

Allow yourself plenty of time to arrive

Be prepared to discuss your original application form or CV but also have some new examples ready

Have questions prepared to ask your assessors Remember lasting impressions are important. Thank people for their time and remember to smile!

Good luck from the RPC Graduate Recruitment Team!

Discover more about PRC careers here.

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How to make the most out of your second term at university Currently in my second year on the DHL graduate scheme, it’s also my final year and approaching my “second term” in the placement. Drawing parallels, I can clearly remember the position you’re in right now. It’s the time where most people are scrambling to find an internship, placement or permanent job. With exams looming and the weather dark and dreary, it’s not the most motivating time to be writing and submitting applications.

So how about approaching it from this angle instead?

The sooner you submit your applications, the sooner you can secure a job offer and the sooner you can relax and enjoy your second term at university. While it may sound easier said than done, being timely with applications is the best way to ensure you’re able to make the most of the remainder of your time at university.

For me, juggling with my dissertation, trying to find a job and realising my students days were coming to an end all increased my already high stress levels. I found it helped to write a to-do list and note down any deadlines and timelines to achieving them. Capturing what you need to do by when will help you plan ahead, instead of feeling like you’re being chased all the time.

Once your goals for the term are clearly planned out, I promise you it won’t feel as bad!

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The DHL graduate application process is very transparent; at every stage, it’s clear what they expect of you and what you can expect in return.

Of the tens of jobs I applied for, it also proved the most enjoyable process by far, discovering whether you fit the company and whether the scheme is right for you, Excellence, simply delivered – DHL definitely delivers.

Could a career with DHL deliver for you?

Find out here.

Life at the Bank Maame Kwarteng, Compliance

What persuaded you to work for Bank of What do you enjoy most about your job?

America Merrill Lynch?

Every day is a new adventure which teaches me a During my internship, a lot of people were genuinely interested in helping me grow and learn as an individual. The culture was very collegiate, supportive, and welcoming. The bank also provided a lot of training to equip us with the necessary skills to succeed in such a driven and ambitious environment.

Promoting diversity and inclusion has always been my passion and I was impressed by how keen the bank was to ensure this was promoted within its workplace. There is something for everyone at the bank – regardless of your interests, background, and skill.

fresh perspective on a situation. I also think of my job as the best of both worlds – I get to increase my knowledge in financial investment products and in the regulation surrounding it at the same time.

To be a good compliance officer, you must be good at eliciting trust from the business you support. This is done by building lasting relationships with the business – so being a ‘people’ person helps! And also by having a good understanding of the business – so that you understand challenges you are presented with and can assist accordingly. All in all, I enjoy my job because I am eager to learn and meet people.

How would you describe your job to a friend? What do you enjoy doing in your personal time?

I am part of the EMEA Research Compliance team.

We support the Research Business – a division of the bank that is responsible for producing investment research – on matters related to regulation and the bank’s policy and procedures. We provide advice and updates to the business on regulatory matters, as well as manage regulatory and internal audit reviews and enquiries. We also provide education and training to the business based on regulatory and internal policies, and also review their activities to ensure they are consistent with internal policies.

I love to read! And this really helps as I work in compliance and have to keep up to date with regulation and policy. I am also a massive foodie and spend a lot of my time trying new recipes and flavours. I enjoy singing as well and am part of the bank’s choir which is great fun and a fantastic way to meet people.

What advice would you give to students?

When you intern or join the bank – ask questions, introduce yourself to people and be interested!

People are keen to hear your thoughts and are more than happy to let you contribute.

Head to the BAML website for more information.

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