First Step Sixth Form Programme Review

In a nutshell, it was very memorable day - it explained explicitly the different roles within investment banking and global markets whilst also improving interview and presentation skills. The programme outlined the history of the bank as well as cultural differences between Asian and European markets. On top of that, I participated in useful CV, interview and networking workshops.

The HR department (the hosts) welcomed us onto the programme and conducted the day quite well. They answered questions about banking and the selection process of Nomura as well as any other questions. Thus, I was given more clarification and reassurance to what I was expected to do when reaching graduate-level jobs.

As mentioned before, the hosts pretty much answered all the questions I had for the day. Not only that, but professionals, including managing directors, attended the programme to talk about their role and expressed their opinions on the bank. With networking sessions spread across the day, I was able to delve deeper into the different careers within the bank (i.e. Fixed Income, Global Markets, Technology etc.).

The skills I developed, and information I received, certainly assisted me/will assist me for university and life after. More specifically, I gained information about the industry I am planning on going into and was able to meet with employees and ask them questions about the industry and the day-to-day tasks involved.

The insight programme was very well structured, in my opinion. It was divided into several sections which included skills workshops and informative presentations. Everything ran smoothly and I was able to ask questions and meet with professionals throughout the course of the day. Even the lunch break was quite productive due to having a networking session taking place at the same time.

The atmosphere was another top-class feature of the insight programme. The fun truly never stopped; every hour consisted of another insightful session - and, at the same time, the atmosphere was relaxed but informative. What truly stood out was how Nomura's cultural background expanded across the departments and its operations.

The company did certainly invest in me in terms of both personal training and development. Being one of the 35 selected out of 450, I truly felt as though I was given more than sufficient training.

Very much so. I was given an in-depth insight into how an employee, within various departments, operated. I was told about the working hours and vast benefits gained as a result of working for the bank.

Knowing how the company's culture spread across the actual works of the company was one of many questions I had. I was also told about how influential the different roles of the company were in assisting the overall operations.

The content of the insight programme has not helpful in deciding on my future career path but certainly reassured my decision on choosing my career path.

There were numerous occasions where employees and professionals came in and spoke to us about their roles and answered any questions I had.

The networking/social event opportunities were very insightful.

Yes.

Definitely would recommend this insight.