Spring Insight Scheme Review

My expectations for this were extremely high given that it was my first taster into the banking industy and I was not disappointed. I enjoyed the interaction I had with staff and other students, especially whilst working together in team exercises.

Barclays looked after us while we were there and someone from HR was always on hand to help with our questions.

We obtained specific instructions with regards to tasks so therefore I felt that they guided us appropriately. I also felt that the staff were open especially when I asked them all sorts of questions in formal/informal settings.

There are a number of group coursework projects with my degree so I think that the team projects which we participated in will help me prepare for these in university.

The few days were were on the programme all went to schedule and there was sufficient time in the evenings to wind down!

Some team exercises were a little pressured but on the whole the atmosphere was great! I was with a group of like minded individuals which really made the difference.

The firm gave us materials for the day and the staff took the time out to coach us, especially after the group exercises.

The insight gave me some idea as to what it would be like to have a job, however because we did not partake in actual day to day tasks it is difficult to understand exactly what it would be like to have a full time role there.

Barclays has a great people culture and this was accentuated throughout the insight.

I felt that the work shadowing was very beneficial although not long enough! It confirmed my desire to apply to Barclays for an internship.

Barclays reimbursed all my expenses and provided lunch each day.

There were numerous opportunities! I mainly did my networking around lunch time and occasionally at the end of the day.

The opportunities were useful. I think that they could have introduced a few more activities as I really found networking beneficial.

We were told by the employees that there was the usual sports clubs outside of work. Due to the nature of the work, lots of staff did pre-warn us that we may not necessarily have the time to partake in these!

Absolutely! I had a great experience overall.