Spring Intern Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my Spring Insight with Rothschild. A smaller-sized cohort (24 people) allowed us to bond together very quickly and work cohesively throughout the week. The panel sessions were very interactive, and I found the Coca-Cola case study particularly interesting due to the large-scale size of the deal. I really enjoyed work shadowing as it provided an in-depth and more realistic insight of the role of an analyst, and we were shown an example of a pitch book.

Rothschild values all of its employees dearly - whether at Spring Insight or more senior level – with a specific focus on keeping employees for a long time. As an intern, I felt listened to and invested in. It was clear that a lot of effort had been made to provide a comprehensive overview of the firm and ensure that our time was productively spent

The Human Resources team was our main base for support. They were extremely approachable and helpful, whether it be providing guidance about the group project or answering questions about future opportunities with Rothschild. The analysts were also great role models, and gave valuable guidance in terms of how best to approach the Spring Insight.

The skills I learnt throughout the week will undoubtedly serve me in the future. Through the training and panel sessions, I gained more knowledge in finance and the different roles within an investment bank. Through the group project, my analytical and presentation skills improved and it was an excellent teamwork experience within a banking environment.

The structure of the programme was seamless: a perfect combination of panel sessions, case studies, networking, work shadowing and group project, all organised in a smooth manner.

The atmosphere was friendly and collegiate, and I am pleased to say that I am still in touch with a few of my peers. We enjoyed working, learning and socializing together, ending the week with a self-organized group dinner! Employees were equally friendly and open, and it was lovely to see how well they got a long amongst each other.

The firm invested a lot of resources and time in us: providing finance training on the first day and allowing us to meet with more Senior Bankers. Bankers at all levels were more than willing to answer our questions, whether technical or personal, and really wanted to share their knowledge with us.

The work-shadowing opportunities were particularly helpful in understanding what a full time role entails as we got to go to their desks, meet their teams and ask more in-depth questions.

Rothschild’s culture is very unique and special, and this definitely stood out during the week. Being a family-owned business, the firm focuses on long-term relationships with clients and employees alike, something that particularly appeals to me. It also has a very rich history, which we got to explore during our visit to the archives.

The week definitely confirmed my enthusiasm for a career within investment banking.

The networking opportunities were ample. Formal networking events included a buffet lunch with analysts and afternoon tea with senior bankers. There was also sufficient free time to have coffee with employees or go out for dinner with peers.

I really enjoyed the social events, for example we had drinks on the first evening where I got to socialize with my cohort.

Yes, through the best way possible: first-hand experience! On Wednesday, we got involved in volunteering at a centre. Tasks included painting, cutting paper trees and decorating, which was a great bonding activity that we all enjoyed.

Yes, I would definitely recommend this insight to a friend. It was a very rewarding experience and I really enjoyed the whole process.