Spring Intern Review

Overall, it was a helpful experience and I understood better the banking environment and especially the difference between Investment Banking and Trading, however the days were too full with activities, too tiring. Everyone was getting home exhausted, especially in the first day when we stayed literally 12 hours in there.

Honestly, I felt valued and important. Even though we were 50 interns, there was always time for each of our questions. However, maybe in some of the activities the group was too big and not each of us could properly contribute. For instance, at the stock trading game, we were 8, we had only one IPad and I did not get the chance to trade anything.

Undeniably, we received a lot of guidance, we could have asked numerous questions to anyone from a director to a recently graduate. The people from HR explained the structure of the interview numerous times. And I appreciated the fact that they took each one of us to our interview rooms, which were in another part of the building, so we would not get lost.

I have developed better understanding of the economics term , especially those related to trading like : interest rate swaps, derivatives, FX etc. Also developed better interpersonal and communication skills, teamwork. Considering I study Mathematics, I can not say it necessarily helped with my numerical skills , but I could understand the level of math needed in finance.

In terms of structure, it was really organized. We had a clear schedule printed and also on the app. And they really tried to be on time with every activity, so there were only minor delays, not more than five minutes. Every morning the schedule for that particular day was repeated, which is a good aspect.

The atmosphere was nice, people were friendly. I did not feel like there is a competition between us the interns. Also, the stuff was extremely welcoming, everybody was willing to help, to answer your questions. I did not feel under pressure, although we had a debate and an interview. At the debate, people were extremely respectful and civilized.

This was my main purpose and I really understood that there is a great difference from university to work environment. In almost all the departments, you have to come early at work and stay for minimum of 12 hours. The team and the people that you are working with are really an important aspect of the job.

I understood better their 5 values: service, excellence, integrity, stewardship and respect. I was surprised how much the people liked working there because of their teams and other coworkers. I appreciated the fact that Barclays is supportive if you want to make a change and move to a different department.

They were really fair in the payment criteria. We receive 250 pounds for 4 days and also our plane tickets were reimbursed. Moreover, for those coming outside of London they offered free accommodation in Canary Wharf. Also we had free breakfast and free lunch every day, plus cookies and drinks.

Yes there were 4 groups( Win, Spectrum, Embrace, Emerge) that promoted diversity and did many extracurricular activities. One of them was dealing with cultural differences, another with the woman influence in this male-dominated area, another with LGBT issues, how to be supportive. These meetings were held outside their office hours.

Yes, especially if they want to understand the difference between Investment Banking and Trading. Also they provided us with numerous materials, the debate was interesting and the interview comprised everything. Moreover, to understand how it is to wake up at 7 am, commute till Canary Wharf and come home after 10-12 hours.