Technology Summer Analyst Review

So far the placement has been interesting. My specific department is probably not something I want to pursue, I don't believe Investment Banking is my likely future career path, however I have learnt a lot working in Barclays so far and I believe this will only continue. Day to day jobs aren't particularly exciting for me but I think this is the case for most internships/departments, in reality!

The company as a whole, appears to very much be of the belief that young talent is invaluable - they are particularly interested in training Interns, as we are their future. This seems to be reflected throughout the company and within individuals. Colleagues are always willing to arrange meetings for support or interest, and are always helping us learn.

My specific team is small and my supervisor is particularly busy compared to other teams. This is not ideal from a support perspective, however they are always willing to talk to me if I request so, and the people around me are happy to talk to me if I am ever stuck or concerned about any project or task.

It varies. I make myself busy by scheduling meetings with interesting people, which is a great asset of Barclays - everyone is willing to have a conversation about what they do and their career progression! This is hugely beneficial for networking. Some days I am busier than others workwise too. I think it is a pretty good balance.

I am less than halfway through my placement at the moment, and it was a bit slow to start with. So far my projects have been to 'help with ___'. However this is fine, as the project executions are vital for the company, so doing them on my own would be too intimidating and probably not possible.

I am yet to finish the placement, but I believe an internship in the financial industry will develop a huge number of soft skills due to networking opportunities and day-to-day real life working experience, that will be beneficial throughout my future career. Hard skills will also be developed too, for example I am dealing with some code -a very transferrable, useful skill to have.

I think it is hard to label an Investment Bank as 'fun', particularly the background (non front office) elements. I have visited the Trading floor and that does indeed appear more exciting, however in terms of a floor atmosphere I unfortunately can't say it is particularly fun. However, everyone is friendly, and perhaps this is just due to my lack of experience of office work.

There are quite a few events organized, however I feel there could probably be more networking events that combine interns in different sectors (I.e. combine HR/Risk/Tech interns), so we got to know other people in different sectors. In addition I feel placing us into departments wasn't optimal. However, inevitable negatives aside, the internship has been running smoothly, the events that have run so far have been enjoyable, and all my fellow internships seem to be having a good time!

The firm in general invest a lot of money into their 'Young Talent'. There is plenty of online training available, which allows us to develop many different areas and become particularly knowledgeable in many areas. In addition, colleagues are happy to spend time to teach you the relevant area. I believe this is largely because of the positive culture within the firm in general.

They are appealing. They seem to be willing to invest a lot in us to succeed, which I believe will give me plenty of opportunities throughout my career, regardless of whether I stay within the company, or even the industry, at all. My only personal concern about joining is whether this industry is for me, however I should learn that in due course.

Yes. Although, for future employees, this is dependent on you. Although the firm organize events so you have the opportunity to speak to one another, they naturally won't create a social scene for you. We are lucky enough to organize a lot of social events, but to get the same experience as I did, so will you!

Expensive. However, the salary generally makes up for it in London. I am fortunate enough to be able to commute, so the cost of living didn't affect me as much as it could have done. The firm are of course aware of the cost of living and are kinder with the income as a result of this.

London is generally expensive, but it also has a good nightlife. Canary Wharf has everything to offer that we'd need, but if this doesn't suffice, the rest of London has everything you could want. It is arguably the best place in the country for nightlife, so it is not all that bad!

Yes. Barclays have a better society network than I expected. From dance society, to cultural society, to Woman in Tech, to a variety of sports...It is great. Particularly for a student who is used to all the societies University has to offer. I have got involved in some already, all of which seem to be affordable (if not free!).