Functions Spring Intern Review

The spring week for Group Functions and Barclays was overall an amazing experience. Having the opportunity to gain insight into various different divisions was a valuable learning experience. The sessions were interactive and the environment was friendly. Not only was it a door opener, but it was also an eye opener in terms of the vital role banks play in the financial system.

Barclays made us all feel valued. They made it clear that it was not only a time for them to assess whether we're suitable for them, but it was also a time for us to have the opportunity to assess them. Barclays provided everything we needed throughout the week, and made it very easy for those for were travelling from far.

The HR and other Barclays representatives were extremely supportive throughout the week, ensuring that everyone always knew where they were supposed to be, and what they were supposed to be doing. Not only that, but they were always available to speak to if anything needed clarification, or even for general advice.

I appreciated the fact that I could see some of the concepts I had learnt about in my degree so far being put into practice. The spring week is a real learning experience, and is very information intensive. I have no doubts that I will continue to benefit from what I've learnt, whether its for my degree or for life in general.

The insight was very well clearly planned out on Barclays events app. Although there were some minor changes to the original schedule, these were always communicated efficiently. Perhaps one area that may need improving is the timekeeping, as often sessions ran overtime and we were left with shorter lunch breaks.

The atmosphere within Barclays is one of an underlying friendly culture, and also one of excellence. Throughout the week, I could tell that the Barclays values are not just a cliche list of nice sounding words; however there is a genuine desire to let these values guide their everyday conduct at the workplace.

Barclays gave us the opportunity to work shadow two areas of preference, where we received one on one mentoring. In addition to this, there was financial markets training, and a leadership session, where we examined our personality types and how we can use this to our benefit in the workplace.

An insight week is very useful for learning about a company, and gaining an initial understanding of what certain roles entail. However as it is only 1 week long, and doesn't involve any real work, you can't gain a full picture of what it would be like working full-time.

All of the Barclays representatives were passionate to communicate over how important Barclays culture is, especially since the financial crisis where banks have been labelled as dishonest or greedy. However it was clear that Barclays have done so much to maintain their reputation. They have a culture of respect, integrity, customer service, excellence, and stewardship.

The content was very important. It included detailed insight sessions, graduate panel discussions, work shadowing opportunities and networking events. The combination of these methods allowed us to gain thorough insight into different potential roles. It was clear that many people's career aspirations were influenced by what they saw throughout the week.

In addition to the pay and reimbursement of travel expenses, Barclays provided accommodation to those who were travelling from far. Barclays did all they could to ensure that the interns would not suffer from financial burden.

There was a graduate networking session, and a senior networking session. In addition, there was a 2 hour networking evening held which included a range of representatives from graduates to vice presidents.

Always very insightful and the representatives were always willing to answer questions and give advice. Many often gave out their contact details so we could stay in touch.

Barclays always give their employees sufficient time to manage their work-life balance. For example, one of the employees I spoke to is a sky-diving coach.

Most definitely. Insights such as these are a great way of gaining an initial understanding on the bank. It is beneficial to start exploring career options early on in university. Barclays provided us with everything we needed, along with an amazing opportunity to learn, network and explore further internships.