UBS Insights Review

The insight week provided me with a better picture of the investment banking industry and the different divisions that operate within it. The different workshops and games were an interesting and fun way for us to learn more about the company. The work shadowing experience also allowed us to experience what it is like in the day of an employee.

The company reminded us that we were very lucky to be here and also showed it in the way they treated us, by answering our questions and giving us general advice about the industry. There was also a lot of graduates who helped out throughout the programme, showing they took this program seriously.

We were encouraged to ask questions throughout and had ample time to do so. During some of the workshops or case studies, we had people to assigned to us to guide us through the work when we did not understand. At the same time they also did not provide us with answers but encouraged us to think critically.

I learnt how to work and share my views in a team better. This will be essential in future as teamwork is important in ensuring a project runs smoothly and efficiently. The information I received, such as how an investment bank functions and how to look at macroeconomic events will be useful in my future career as I am interested in working in the financial sector.

The insight was well structured. Each programme flowed smoothly throughout and there was sufficient transition time. The time was also managed well and we managed to stick to the schedule mostly throughout. It was also structured in a way that we were able to go through and learn about each of the divisions within the firm.

The atmosphere was fun and exciting. The people I met were all very bright and knowledgable, and we had many interesting discussions. The games and workshops were not conducted in a competitive atmosphere, but rather one where everyone can learn and have fun at the same time, which was something I really appreciated.

The company provided us with an overview of the European economy, organised talks and workshops, a work-shadowing afternoon, networking lunch and an assessment centre overview. Hence, the company provided us with many opportunities to learn more and develop our skills. Sufficient time was also dedicated to Q&A sessions to allow us to learn more about the company.

One aspect of the insight was an afternoon of work shadowing with one of the graduates. For me, this was a one-to-one experience and this allowed me to ask questions and observe what a typical day looks like for a full-time employee. I had the opportunity to attend a town-hall meeting as well as tour the trading floor.

The insight allowed me to understand the direction the company was heading. It also allowed me to learn more about the company's culture and what they look for in candidates. I learnt about the key competencies, the way the company differentiates itself and the company's vision and values through the employees' perspective.

Before joining the insight, I had an idea of what I was interested in. As the programme was only one-week long, it was too short for me to know for certain if this is the right career path for me. However it has allowed me to understand more about what the career entails and what aspect of work the division does.

I was not paid or reimbursed as I live in London

We had the opportunity to meet employees from different divisions within the company.

We had one networking lunch and one social event. The networking lunch was just right, and we had time to network with the graduates. There could have been more social event opportunities. It was held on the first day and everyone left pretty early. There was not enough food to go around as well.

Yes I learnt about how the company supports and encourages volunteering among its employees. This includes partnering with and the supporting of education, like the Bridge Academy. Also I learnt about how the company supports in employees in taking external qualifications and this is something that encourages me to work for the company.

Yes I would recommend this insight to a friend. Through this insight I have gained valuable knowledge about the company and the industry. I have also made new friends and experienced what it is like to work in banking. Overall I would recommend this as a great experience to meet other intelligent people with similar interests and to learn more about the banking industry.