Finance for Non-Finance Spring Week 2019 Review

This insight was unique as the firm genuinely invested in training the participants. It involved technical training about all areas of the firm but also soft skills training; from presentation skills to body language tips. This differentiated the scheme and enabled me to feel more confident in myself and thus enjoy the experience massively.

I felt valued by everyone I met, both from the firm and other participants. The Campus Recruitment team made an effort to ensure we had the opportunity to engage with everyone on the skills through networking events, regular breaks, and switching seating arrangements each day. This made the experience very comfortable and friendly.

During the insight, the Campus Recruitment representatives were present throughout every session for any queries anyone may have. I felt it was valuable that only two representatives were present also, as this mean participants could feel they could go to them with any issue they had. The class was also large enough so that you could always find someone if you had any problems that you did not wish to talk to a firm representative about.

The skills I have taken away from this insight is what made the scheme so unique. I learned how to improve my technical understanding of the industry but maintaining my commercial awareness, how to develop my presentation skills, how to improve my confidence through my posture, and how to network effectively.

The insight was extremely well structured. I appreciated that the first two days were focused largely on training, which I feel was beneficial for non-finance participants. This enabled participants to then learn about the different areas of the firm with the technical knowledge that was required; and thus get the most out of the remainder of the insight.

From the first day, the atmosphere was relaxed, friendly, and inspiring. Without the intense pressure that often accompanies a leading global company, J.P. Morgan made all participants feel at ease. This was an atmosphere created by the general attitude of all the firm's employees, and willingness to answer any questions participants may have, regardless of their own seniority.

The company invested a significant amount in the participants. We were exposed to technical training from a leading provider. This meant we received market-leading training that we would not have received anywhere else. We also received soft skills training from leading experts who train many notably successful individuals in the field.

The insight was very useful in providing a balance of informative presentations about the various areas of the firm with interactive sessions where participants could genuinely see what, for example, a trader floor may feel like. This mix was valuable, engaging, and gave a good insight into what a full time role may be like with the firm.

The insight was fantastic in enabling participants to truly engage with as many people at the firm as possible. This was important, as it became evident that what made the firm's culture was the 'people'. There were many networking events where we could ask employees of their experiences of the culture, and genuinely, through speaking to these individuals, get a sense of the culture for ourselvs.

The week was key in helping me decide my future career path. As a non-finance student, it was key to providing me with all the information that I needed to learn about this industry and what a career may look like with the firm. My positive experience has shaped my career intentions significantly.

Accommodation was provided for those travelling from outside of London, and travel expenses were all reimbursed. Breakfast and lunch was also provided everyday. The accommodation was only a 10 minutes commute, and we were provided a travel pass on arrival at the hotel. The accommodation was also fully self-catered and had everything that one could need.

There were more than three organised networking events with members of the firm, which ranged from lunches, to drinks, and an 'Afternoon Tea' session. There were also less formal networking opportunities such as during interactive sessions where employees came to assist and answer any questions that we had. There were also always Q&A opportunities during all presentations given by members of the firm.

The opportunities were enjoyable as they did not feel too formal. There was no pressure to engage but equally one wished to because of the welcoming feel of all the firm's employees. There was always fantastic food and drink served, which made the events feel special, and the participants all the more valued.

I found out a significant amount about the firm's voluntary work and internal social groups. This was interesting as it is an area that, particularly within the banking industry, does not get much press. However on the first day, participants were able to learn about the firm's social responsibility initiatives and the success they have seen to date.

Regardless of one's career aspirations, this experience was enjoyable and highly informative about the way an industry works that so few know about. It is an opportunity to develop your own skills and meet very inspiring people. As a result, I could not recommend the scheme any more highly. I would not only recommend this to a friend, but to anyone interested in a career in the City.