student Review

Beforehend I views the finance sector as a field of work that was not only out of my experience but that I wasn't sure how to learn something about (apart from mere facts and prejudices). During the week I got to learn everything I hoped to in a way that made me look forward to each of the presentations and events - even though I did feel as if I was not able to take in more information at times.

I felt very valued. Every J.P. Morgan employee I met showed both in words and behaviour or by simply taking the time to answer questions that my interest was truly appreciated. It was obvious how much thought and work went into making the week an utmost valuable experience for all of us. While it is clear that anyone who wants to work for J.P.Morgan in the end will have to prove himself, I really felt that this week was meant to prove J.P Morgan to us.

As much guidance and support as was needed, I suppose - with the offer for more if I wished so. Already beforehand my questions were answered and help given were I needed it, and during the week there was not a moment when I felt I couldn't ask someone. Guidance in a very literal sense was perfect as well - it was impossible to not know where to go next.

There is no direct link between the information I received and my degree studies as law is a very unquantitative field of studies. But I learned a great deal about myself and how to present myself. Also it gave me an understanding of the finance sector that will probably prove valuable even if I become a lawyer.

From the first day on when we each had ower specific arrival times to the schedule of the week's and day's events, I always knew what was going to happen next and what to prepare for. I also found that the different presentations and tasks built on each other very well.

I already mentioned how valued I felt at J.P.Morgan which does translate into a very positive atmosphere. People were warm and approachable and all the other students came in with a great amount of motivation which made talking to them a wonderful experience as well. There were some moments though when people were generally tired after a string of presentations. That didn't add up to a negative experience but a more subdued atmosphere at times.

Only looking at the amount of people that took the time to give presentations, talk to us and teach us I can already say that they invested a lot in me. I feel that to be especially true as this is a new program especially developed for people like me who have no financial background.

For this the presentations gave a good basis. I learned what tasks where entailed in the different work places, what (personal) qualifications are needed and what a usual work day may look like. The most helpful part were conversations with the J.P.Morgan employees though - both right after a presentation and during the social events. Especially interesting was to find out why people changed or did not change a team to learn what parts of the job/ which job would put what kind of pressure on me.

I did understand the company culture is something that is very important to J.P. Morgan and that is invested in a lot. I also learned that the goal is to create a friendly, helpful and collegial environment. But I think to really understand it and its effect one has to actually work at J.P. Morgan and be part of that culture.

It was absolutely helpful. I was able to learn about so many different aspects, about how the work day might look like, what would be expected of me and what it actually means to work at an ivestment bank and especially to work at J.P.Morgan.The whole event helped me reflecting on what it actually is that I want from a job.

The flight over to London, accomodation and almost all meals were provided by J.P. Morgan.

It was usually possible to not only ask a few question after a presention but also to actually talk things though, which already counts in my book. There were also an evening event and a lunch that were completely dedicated to network, and we had the opportunity to talk to many employees right at their desks during a shadowing exercise.

There were many employees ready to talk to us, there was a very easy-going atmosphere - mostly due to the people themselves but also because of the frame. There would always be food and drinks during the social events. I have to say that it was a bit overwhelming at times though.

We asked about it a few times and the answers where different. Everyone finds a way to balance out work somehow but it is clear that the hours are usually long and stressful. There were some employees who chose a certain team so they would have more time outside of work - to spend it with friends and family and to enjoy their hobbys and free time.

I can recommend this to everyone who would like to find out whether work at an investment bank and J.P.Morgan is the right thing for them, and of course to already get a foot in the door if they decide it is. And even if not - the other students I met were very driven and just amazing people.It was great to be able to get into contact with them.