Spring into Technology Review

It was a great experience being both fun and informative. The program was well organised including a good balance of social events and technical activities. Everyone at J.P. Morgan was friendly and helpful leading to an enjoyable atmosphere. It provided a good insight into the working of the company and helped me develop my skills.

All the staff were friendly and welcoming which reflects the emphasis J.P. Morgan puts on the culture within the business. Everyone was happy to help out or answer any questions posed to them. The only time where it was noticeable that we were visiting was regarding security but that is understandable due to the nature of their work.

For all the technical task there were always mentors on hand to help out solving problems. In general, the level of difficulty was set such that it was challenging but not impossible if you kept trying. In terms of non-technical support, the leaders were happy to answer any questions people may have.

All the technical exercises were related to programming, therefore, the skills learned here will be useful for my degree and future employment. The focus of networking was also incredibly useful for future employment. Some information was directly related to the financial services industry and J.P. Morgan specifically which will be useful should I apply for positions in the future.

The insight was very well structured. Each activity had enough time such that it did not feel rushed or too long and the day overall was the same. The social activities at the end of each day were also great. The overall insight was just long enough to give a good feel for the company without wasting time on useless filler content.

The atmosphere was excellent. I was surprised that it did not feel like a bank much like many of my cohort. The staff were friendly and fun as well as everyone else taking part in the insight. The social events were a great way to meet new people and generally have fun. The technical activities were also great as they allowed us to have a go rather than just listen to presentations.

There was a clear focus on teaching the core principles that the company uses regarding teamwork and overall policy which, even if I was not to apply, would be very useful in the future. I definitely felt as though J.P. Morgan was investing in me with the hope that I will apply in the future.

The insight was excellent as it exposed me to the culture of the J.P. Morgan which is probably the most important thing when working for any company. Being able to talk to a wide range of people in the company, from new graduates to executive directors, helped me to understand what it is like to work there full time in a number of capacities.

The company culture appears to be a core part of working at J.P. Morgan and the insight week really helped to demonstrate this. This was introduced in the introductory talks but really reinforced by the work shadowing sessions throughout the insight experience. It was also focused on by the leaders of the programme throughout.

The content of the insight was very valuable in terms of future career paths because I enjoyed the experience and could see myself working there in the future. Consequently, I know I have at least one application I can make and hopefully I can find a similar style of a working environment for other options.

I did not require any expenses to be paid due to living very close to the building where the event was taking place. As I understand from other participants they were reimbursed most of the expenses and accommodation was provided for them at a local hotel. Food was provided for all meals as well.

There was a huge range of opportunities including a senior networking lunch where we could talk to people higher up in the organisation as well as the work shadowing opportunities where we could meet graduate students who have the most realistic experience to what I would go through if I applied.

The social events were great as they were in a relaxed environment after each day and allowed the members of the programme to get to know each other well. The networking opportunities were also good as they introduced us to more senior members of staff to get a different perspective of the company.

A key emphasis throughout my time at J.P. Morgan was the side projects that employes can enrol on. The dedication to innovation and helping the local and wider communities in which they do business was clear to see. They particularly encourage their employees to participate in these projects, especially if you wish to be recognised and move up in your career.

I would absolutely recommend this insight to a friend. It was a great opportunity to explore the working of J.P. Morgan whilst being fun and interesting. The team that runs the program is excellent and made the whole programme really enjoyable. It was a fantastic experience, particularly if you are looking to join the financial industry.