Explore Programme Review

The Insight spanned 4 days, with each day devoted to a specific business area at Nomura, including Investment Banking, Global Markets and Corporate Infrastructure. Each day we had talks, panels and presentations, as well as networking opportunities and lunches. A trading simulation and financial literacy training also took place on one day each. We were given vast opportunities to network with Nomura professionals and our peers, including at a drinks session on the second to last evening, and afternoon tea on the final day. We were introduced to Nomura's culture, and given advice on what next steps to take in order to prepare ourselves for Summer Internship applications.

I have certainly been able to strengthen my networking skills and make some good friends, thanks to lots of opportunities in the Explore Programme to do so. We had a training session on LinkedIn to help us expand our network, which has been very useful. I now have a more solid grasp of financial terminology, and was able to practice IB and GM case studies that will no doubt help with future applications for roles in this sector or at Nomura. I feel more confident in general, both in myself as an individual and in my ability to have a career in the financial sector.

The Explore Programme really helped us learn more about business areas that I'd never fully considered prior, such as the varied teams and roles within Corporate Infrastructure, Risk and Technology. This gives a better overview of the company and inspired me to look further at what is out there when I'm considering the next steps in my career. Seeing the diversity of people working in these business areas also helped me feel more confident and envision myself in those careers.

The culture was genuinely great; everyone was incredibly friendly and approachable and willing to offer any advice you'd need. You could see from the beautiful office space and from hearing from the employees that work-life balance was quite well-valued and there was a very social culture even between different teams. We heard from the Diversity networks about what they do to uphold Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Nomura, which is ever-important. Likewise, we were allocated mentors who stay in touch with us after the Programme, in their own time, which speaks for the friendliness there.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Programme. Coming in, I was worried I'd struggle to effectively network, or that I would feel a lot of pressure to perform well. However, this was not the case. The atmosphere was incredibly inclusive and friendly. We had chance to undertake fun activities, networking, great lunches, and to learn a lot whilst also feeling more confident about coming into the industry in the future. I have made some great bonds with my peers. I would definitely recommend this Programme to anyone interested in Nomura and the financial sector.

Yes

Make sure to keep up your commercial awareness and knowledge of what's going on in the economy. Understand Nomura and what they do. Bring your personality to the interview!