We caught up with Rahul, a Bright Network member from the University of Sussex who is currently completing the 2021 Summer Internship in the Distribution division with Schroders. He chatted to us about his experience at the firm so far and his top tips for those who want to apply.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I'm Rahul Brainerd. I'm 21 and currently studying Business Management at the University of Sussex.
What stood out to you about Schroders?
Having had an insight week at a different investment bank, I remember them telling me that 'We have two offices, each one has about 1,500 employees and you'll have about 5 other people doing the same work as you on your desk'.
For me, this felt like being a cog in a machine. It felt really impersonal. It also gave me the impression that the company was so big and clunky that it could be stagnant.
More than anything, I wanted a place where I would see the outcome of my work, where I could add value and where I would be valued.
I knew from then on that I wanted to work for a company that was innovative and global but had room to grow.
Schroders ticked all the boxes and more!
What is the culture like at Schroders?
Amazing! You hear all these horror stories of interns and graduates in Financial Services selling their souls, working long hours - which effectively means they're working for minimum wage. You also hear about interns making coffee or doing mundane tasks that no one else wants to do.
At Schroders it's nothing like that. It definitely breaks the mould of a stereotypical financial services firm. Before you join, Schroders offer you whatever you need to do your job effectively, whether that be new technology like a laptop or any other accessories. Once you join, you're given thorough training on Schroders, Asset Management, and the Financial Services sector in general.
As well as being assigned your line manager, you're also assigned a buddy on the Graduate Scheme, who has been in your shoes within the last couple of years and they're really there to ensure you make the most of your time here. They give you advice on how to navigate the internship and the conversion process as well as just being someone to answer any questions you may have.
There are coffee hours with senior management, where you get an insight into other parts of the business. Even when you're at the desk or in the lifts, people stop and say hi, so you can get talking to other employees that way too.
You're given a variety of meaningful work, which adds value and has a genuine impact on the business, but most importantly you're trusted with the responsibility to do it. No one is there making sure you're at your desk all the time or watching over you - you're treated like an adult, which is really refreshing.
What’s your favourite aspect of your role at Schroders so far?
Honestly, I don't think I could choose a favourite. I'd have to say three things:
- The People - they're so nice, everyone's willing to have a chat and there's an expert on everything within the business, who you can learn so much from.
- The Work - No day is the same! The work is so varied. And perhaps more importantly, it is work that adds value to the business.
- How much Schroders care - Flexible working is a great help. There's also everything you could need including an on-site, state-of-the-art gym complimentary Friday BBQs and the roof terrace garden, with beautiful views of the city are great too.
What would be your top tip to members going through the application process?
I know it sounds cliché but be yourself and back yourself. The further you go through the process, just remember that you are there for a reason, you deserve to be there, and Schroders want you to be there. Be confident in your own abilities!
The internship is essentially a two-way, 8 week interview. It's as much about you seeing if Schroders is a fit for you, as it is Schroders seeing if you're good enough for them.
Don't just apply because all-things-investment has become fashionable. Apply if you have a genuine interest in Asset Management and working for Schroders as a company!
Did Bright Network help you secure this role and, if so, how?
I didn't find out about this role through Bright Network, but I'm personally signed up to it and I get emails which suggest plenty of opportunities that Bright Network thinks are suitable for me.
I've actively encouraged people I know to partake in the Internship Experience programme, and I know that Schroders gets involved with that too!
Keen to find out more about Schroders? View their profile here!