First Step Programme Review

Personally, before attending the Insight Day I had a completely different view of Investment Banking. I thought it would be very daunting and I would leave more confused than before. This was definitely not the case: I felt very welcome, could clarify any doubts and acquired many useful tips for the future.

I definitely felt as if I belonged to the bank, as I spoke to a number of staff who were not directly involved in organizing the Insight, without feeling as if I was bothering them. Everyone was always ready to help, answer any questions and give advice that was pertinent to my individual situation.

There was a lot of support on behalf of the Recruitment team. I particularly value the advice given on interview questions and the CV writing workshop. Some of the points mentioned are very industry-specific and not ones that I would have thought of had I not attended the Insight Programme.

I think in terms of my degree studies, the skills were not directly relevant, as I will pursue a Law LLB, rather than a finance-related course. However, for future job applications in the finance sector the skills developed will be fundamental and will hopefully help me in my career.

I thought the structure was excellent, because even during lunch hour we were able to network and advance our knowledge of the bank. The way we were able to get acquainted with the bank structure first and only then with the different roles available was especially helpful.

I really enjoyed the atmosphere, as there were a lot of like-minded individuals and everyone was very curious, as opposed to hostile or competitive. We all quickly got to know each other and I stayed in touch with some other candidates after leaving. The Recruitment team and the other bank staff were very welcoming and helpful, despite only spending one day with us.

Considering that the Insight only lasted for one day, there was a high level of investment. The day was carefully structured and part of the application process was simulated, which I found particularly useful. Moreover, the Recruitment team has stayed in touch even after the Insight, which makes me feel valued and supported, if I have further questions.

Insofar as a one day Insight goes, a large amount of information was given regarding a full time position, in all of the departments. However, I feel that the focus of this programme was to prepare future candidates for the application process, whereas further independent research into each of the roles is required.

Before applying I had read about the company culture on their website and had read testimonies from previous attendees. However, the Insight demonstrated directly the relations between the employees, what kind of attitude was valued and how clients were treated. One cannot be substituted for the other.

Before attending the Insight Programme I was not too sure that I was interested in Investment Banking and that this would be one of my career options. Now I am certain that I will apply to further programmes to extend my understanding of the sector and increase my employability prospects.

It was possible to get your travel expenses reimbursed, however, as I had a weekly travel card for London I did not apply to have a reimbursement.

There were several networking opportunities: the panel discussion, speed networking workshop and lunch hour. Therefore, I was able to get opinions of employees from a variety of sectors and learn about new tips regarding the application process to further programmes. The employees present during the networking answered all the questions very succinctly too, avoiding the feeling of being overwhelmed.

The networking opportunities provided a possibility to ask personal advice, which was pertinent to my own individual situation. I also felt that I could clarify any doubts regarding specific positions that I was interested in or any minor details, that bringing up during the major discussion may have been unnecessary.

During the day a tour of the building was organized and facilities, such as the gym or the spa, were shown. From the employees themselves I found out that if your time at the bank was well managed, you still could carry out a number of other activities outside of work, like sports.

I think that if you are unsure about the finance sector or generally regarding your future career, the Nomura Insight is an excellent opportunity to get started. Thus, I would recommend this to anyone I knew that would like to pursue a career in banking, but also to anyone looking to acquire valuable transferable skills.