Spring intern Review

The insight week was very enjoyable - I would highly recommend it! Each day was organised with detail, containing many varied activities which meant each day was exciting and I was never bored. Examples of events/activities include: talks from senior professionals, networking events, group work, work shadowing and much more.

Barclays has such a friendly and welcoming presence, each professional I have met has been extremely kind and helpful regardless of their seniority. This definitely put me at ease and made me feel valued. The values held by Barclays (RISES) has definitely been implemented and you can feel these values expressed in each professional. In addition, we were accommodated to high standards - given great food and breaks.

There is a lot of guidance and support provided by the professionals who work at Barclays. People are always willing to talk, give up their time and answer question - even beyond the talk/speech they held. If I was ever uncertain about something, I could always rely on the Graduate recruitment team; who were always very happy to chat and advised me.

I have definitely developed many skills from completing this programme which will benefit me in the long term, providing transferable skills for my degree studies but more importantly the workplace. For example, we had sessions from IDG which enhanced my team working and leadership skills which are essential and invaluable traits. In addition, I have become better at creating networks - I can confidently say I have made life-long connections here.

The structure of this week was amazing. Each day was full of exciting events such as networking, group projects, talks from various areas of tech and much more. The graduate recruitment took time to tailor the days according to previous feedback and have tried to ensure that we are still engaged

The atmosphere has been phenomenal. All the other students here have been lovely and it is great to find like-minded individuals to myself. In addition, the professionals have given valuable insight and tips, being highly welcoming.

I do believe Barclays has a brilliant reputation and that is because it invests a lot in its professionals, especially its Graduates. I have heard that Barclays provides learning/development programmes and courses for those that are interested. In addition, all professionals are trained so each person has the relevant knowledge needing. Moreover, the time that has been invested in the spring week by professionals has been highly appreciated.

This spring week has allowed me to gain first-hand experience in this big firm, enabling me to gain a glimpse of how life may be here if I worked here full-time. I am certain, that I will be surrounded with intelligent, motivated and friendly individuals. Although, there are many careers available here, many being fairly similar so I am slightly uncertain about what each job role entails.

The company culture is very important, plastered everywhere! It is clearly very important to Barclays. Each professional has an understanding of the values (Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence and Stewardship) and this has come across fairly well. Although, it would have been brilliant if each value was explained slightly better so I could keep an eye out for each professionals' behaviour

This spring week has definitely helped me have a clearer idea of what career path I would like to pursue. It gave me an idea of a role I am interested in pursuing (Business Analyst) but it was also a valuable opportunity to decide things I did not like. Although, it was focussed on technology mainly and I would have liked to know a bit more about other divisions in Barclays

Paid for the week

Each day networking occurred. There were 2 main networking events with seniors/graduates and other professionals. It also provides an opportunity to network with students with similar interests and goals.

Great! There were two different types of networking events. One with senior professionals which was great since we got a chance to understand how career progression at Barclays occurs. The other networking event was with a variety of professionals from graduates who were on the spring intern to seniors - this was a great opportunity to find out more about different tech roles, in a more informal way.

Yes, I learnt a lot about extra-curricular activities and societies which are part of Barclays. Diversity is heavily encouraged and there are many networks available to have a fun social time but also to gain mentoring. If there is an activity that does not exist, professionals are free to create their own society.

Of course! It enables you to learn about Barclays and the role available. In addition, it is a great opportunity to gain a spring intern and then a graduate job. Plus, you gain many networks who are willing to help and give up their free time. Also, the invaluable skills gained are important for any future roles.