Ella is an Anthropology graduate from Durham University. I secured a Operating Excellence Graduate scheme at HSBC in London, through Bright Network. 
First, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
“I decided to go to university to study something new, and that's why I chose Anthropology. It covered all of my interests, from politics to geography to biology.
To be honest, I didn't go to university with a career in mind, but financial services and banking always interested me. HSBC is a great fit for me because of the global opportunity it offers.
Anthropology shone a light on different cultures and customs across the world, and with HSBC, I can continue to explore this within the huge international network here, and the unique travel opportunities offered as part of my graduate programme.”
What motivated you to apply for your role?
“I applied for an Operations role because I had a background in HR and management, and this seemed like a suitable link.
The Operating Excellence graduate programme stood out to me mainly because of the breadth of roles I could try as rotations. From corporate real estate to business management, transformation to procurement, it was a unique offering.”
What was the application process like?
“There were more stages than I expected, I think 5 or 6 including the assessment centre.
I had a full-time job when I was applying, so that made committing to each type of assessment difficult.
However, the process was clear and I felt guided and informed during the whole application process. I was also in touch with a recruiter during the final stages.”
What are you most proud of about your journey?
“I was at university during the Covid pandemic, so I found it difficult to secure an internship. As a result of this, and not being sure of a career path, it took me slightly longer to find a graduate role. I was delighted to be offered a graduate opportunity with HSBC via Bright Network.”
What have you learned from going through the process?
“I mainly learned to trust myself and have confidence in my ability. It is easy to find aptitude tests frustrating, but taking my time and working logically helped.
Sometimes, with the amount of applications, on top of university studies and work going on in the background, you can lose sight of how much progress you've made. I didn't realise that I'd been shortlisted! So make sure you sustain your motivation throughout - and check your emails.”
What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
“I would have attended more recruitment events, including Bright Network events. I recently attended a Bright Network Women in Leadership event as a HSBC representative, and they are an amazing (and free) way to hone in on a company or career.
I would also suggest that you are resilient as possible when submitting applications. It is hugely competitive, and you should not take rejections personally. Securing a role is not always a linear process, so just stay focused and use each assessment and interview as a learning opportunity.”
Tell us about the future. What’s next?
“I’m looking forward to (hopefully) securing a permanent career at HSBC. I am really enjoying my third rotation here, and currently applying for my fourth. My main aim is to work abroad with the company for a few months before rolling off the two-year scheme.”
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