We recently caught up with Harry, who is about to join British Airways as a Finance Graduate.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
I studied Economics, Finance and Banking BSc at the University of Portsmouth after I took Economics at A level and enjoyed the subject. I was always determined to pursue a career in Finance after the completion of my degree, as it was the part of my degree which I enjoyed the most. In my spare time I love to go on holiday to explore as many countries as I possibly can, alongside my hobbies watching football, going to the gym and long walks.
What is your role and what element are you most looking forward to?
I am going into a 3-year Finance Graduate role. During these 3 years I will work in 3 different finance teams within the business while studying for a CIMA qualification alongside my work. I am looking forward to working in the aviation industry and testing my skills and knowledge across 3 different roles which stood out to me as I get to find out which area I would like to pursue whether that’s a more technical or hands-on role.
What stood out to you about British Airways?
One of the main selling points of British Airways is the fact I love planes and travelling so the aviation industry was a seamless fit for me. This way I got to work in an industry which promotes things I am passionate about giving me a greater sense of purpose in my work.
What was the application process like to join British Airways?
The application process for British Airways was very well organised and consisted of a series of online tests, then an online interview and then finally an assessment day where you conduct a solo presentation, have an interview, and do a group exercise. British Airways were very timely and communicated well throughout the application process.
How did Bright Network help you secure this role?
Bright Network helped massively to secure the role as I probably would not have found it. This is because I was scrolling through Bright Network and happened to see the grad scheme advertised. If not for Bright Network British Airways was not a company I would have searched for a grad scheme with as I hadn’t typically associated it with a finance career.
Finally, what top three tips would you give Bright Network members looking to follow in your footsteps?
- Start applying for grad schemes early as soon as you enter your final year as many schemes close in October.
- Have work experience even if it’s a bit of volunteering or not relevant to the specific role you want as I worked in Tesco alongside my studies which greatly helped me develop skills employers desire like teamwork and communication.
- Lastly, don’t give up as the graduate job market is highly competitive, me and many of my friends applied for and got rejected from lots of roles but you will eventually find something that suits you and that you are passionate about.