Summer Intern Review

I worked as a data analyst mainly, completing tasks set out for me by my manager and other colleagues. I used a variety of tools such as Excel, Tableau, SQL and Python. Each day I would attend various meetings, such as team meetings, individual meetings with my manager, and general online events such as intern lunch and learns, or talks for more senior finance professionals, within and outside of the FCA. I also completed training on financial accounting.

I have learnt the basics of finance and accounting, data analysis via software such as Excel, SQL and Python and data visualisation via Tableau. I have also spent a significant amount of time working and collaborating with others, learning how to network effectively, and completing projects to a high standard and in a punctual manner. I have learn significantly more about financial regulation on the micro prudential side, especially about the authorisation of new firms.

I was responsible for completing numerous projects to a high standard and in a punctual manner for numerous colleagues. For example, on many occasions, I was given a data task such as writing a SQL script to help in another project being completed, and it was my responsibility that it was completed to the highest possible standard and without significant delay. Many of my projects had an impact on a wider scale throughout the FCA.

I received significant support from my manager throughout my internship. She answered all the questions that I had, as well as giving me resources to help find more out about different subjects. I also had the support of my team and grad buddy to whom I could speak at any time about queries that I had. Each intern is assigned a grad buddy to help them whenever help is needed, and so I feel I was highly supported overall.

The company culture was very positive and welcoming. I never experienced any toxicity from my colleagues, and was always supported by everyone I worked with. I would highly recommend for anyone looking for a positive work culture within the financial industry. Everyone’s opinion is heard and there are many activities for employees that occur during work hours. The FCA is a diverse and inclusive workplace, and a great place to start a career in financial regulation.

I have definitely enjoyed my internship this summer. The only negative had been commuting into London, but due to hybrid working I was able to work from home most days. Whilst at work, I always had something to be doing, and none of my work felt pointless or unnecessary. I have enjoyed it mostly because I have always been learning something useful, which motivated me to get my work done to a high quality standard.

Yes

In the interview process, you need to focus almost entirely on the values of the FCA. They are only going to hire you if your values align with theirs. Search up on the FCA website what their specific values are, and then in the interview process, explain how your personal experiences demonstrate and relate to those specific values. They do not hire based off of what knowledge you have about finance or economics in the internship, it is all focused on values.