J.P. Morgan Experience the Markets Spring Week Program Review

The Markets first year insight program involves desk rotations ( of which you can choose your preferred area i.e: sales / trading / research and then pick some preferable asset classes), networking sessions, skills workshops, asset class lessons and a group task.

Employees of the firm from varying levels, from analyst to VP were all extremely willing to answer any questions, and to introduce you to as many people in the division as possible.

Graduate recruitment answer any queries asap. All employees you meet are aware of the program and are there to show you around / teach. There are a lot of Q&A sessions also.

We had a presentation on the current state of the eurozone which touched on a lot of macro concepts studied during my economics course. Pitching / researching skills are useful in any career and so the chance to practice these is always beneficial. The information is great not only for general awareness of the industry, but especially if you are studying finance modules / intend to enter the finance industry as a career.

Monday - Wednesday morning consisted of presentations / networking / preparing your group project. Wednesday afternoon we began 1 of 4 desk rotations which continued until friday Morning. Thereafter we presented our group projects, had a networking session and learnt more about follow up opportunities at J.P. Morgan.

The other students are great fun, and theres a real team atmosphere. People shared advice on what different desks were like, what they preferred and how to prepare. It didn't feel competitive as everyone is under pressure and trying to learn / enjoy the experience as much as possible.

Loads. We had presentations from very senior staff, and then got to network with them ( there was a networking session at least once a day. ) We were assigned mentors throughout the week who we met with / could ask any questions too. They were a form of support to us. In addition we had project mentors who set up and helped us tackle our presentations, giving advice on how to make them the best that they could be.

Getting to rotate around desks and watch people do their jobs for up to 4/5 hours is the best way of learning what technicalities the various roles involve. The presentations / networking give you more of an idea of the personal skills required.

Very team focused and flat employment structure and extremely supportive of young individuals entering the firm.

Once again, rotations really teach you whether you would rather sales / trading / research, giving you a good foundation to go away, further your knowledge and look for future opportunities.

Paid travel expenses. Breakfast & Lunch were provided daily.

At least once a day. This could be from women's networking breakfasts / senior employees networking lunches / lunches with your mentor. You had the opportunity to meet an extremely wide range of people.

Students from a diverse range of backgrounds. There were socials held on the Monday ( drinks at a local bar ) and Wednesday ( A Quiz at the office with dinner & drinks. ) People I met were enjoying the week that on the last day we arranged our own social to round up the spring week.

Lots of volunteering opportunities. In addition there are systems in place for employees to take courses in a wide variety of skills that whilst not compulsory offer brilliant progression.

Definitely. Networking / skills and an in-depth insight to the firm is truly achieved through this program.