Julia is a International Business Management graduate from the University of Bristol. She secured a Graduate Client Advisor Role at Marsh McLennan in Bristol in Bristol, through Bright Network. 
First, we’d love for you to tell us a bit about yourself.
“My career path reflects my curiosity and love for continuous learning. Growing up, I wasn't entirely sure what I wanted to be, as my interests were broad and ever-changing. I decided to go to university because I enjoy learning and wanted to explore different subjects at a deeper level.
Over time, I developed a passion for business studies, drawn by the dynamic nature of the field and the opportunity to make an impact in various industries.
My motivation for entering the business sector stems from this passion, as well as the desire to apply my knowledge to solve real-world challenges and contribute to organizational growth.”
What motivated you to apply for the role?
“I chose to apply to Marsh McLennan because of its reputation as a global leader in professional services, with a strong focus on risk management, strategy, and consulting.
The company's commitment to innovation and its diverse range of client solutions were particularly attractive to me.
I was drawn to the position because it offers the opportunity to work on complex, impactful projects alongside top industry professionals, which aligns with my passion for business and continuous learning. The prospect of contributing to a company that values growth and development was a key factor in my decision.”
What was the application process like?
“Navigating application processes for numerous roles at once was both challenging and time-consuming. The processes often involved multiple stages, including aptitude tests, video interviews and assessment centres, which required a significant investment of time and effort.
Despite these hurdles, the experience helped me refine my application skills and gain a clearer understanding of what employers are seeking in graduate candidates.”
What have you learned from going through the process?
“Applying for a graduate role right after graduation taught me the importance of thorough preparation and adaptability. I was surprised by the length and complexity of the application process, which was more involved than I had anticipated, including multiple stages and detailed assessments.
I wish I had known the extent to which networking and tailored applications play a crucial role in standing out. Overall, the experience highlighted the need for persistence and proactive learning to navigate the competitive job market effectively.”
What are you most proud of about your journey?
“The job market was highly competitive, with so much competition for a limited number of positions. I encountered the challenge of gaining relevant experience, as many roles required skills and knowledge that went beyond academic qualifications.
Networking and building professional connections were crucial, by navigating these aspects without an established network was daunting. Balancing the pressure of finding the right role, whilst maintaining confidence and persistence was a constant challenge throughout the process.”
What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
“I recommend staying persistent and proactive in your job search, while continuously refining your skills and learning from each experience.
If I could do anything differently, I would have started networking earlier and sought out more internships to gain practical experience.
The best advice I received was to tailor each application specifically to the role and company, making sure to highlight how my skills align with their needs. The most helpful resources were career services at my university, online job portals and professional networking platforms like LinkedIn.”
Tell us about the future. What’s next?
“I’m looking forward to diving into the complexities of risk management and contributing to innovative solutions for clients. I’m particularly excited about the opportunity to work with a diverse team of professionals and to gain hands-on experience in a leading global firm.
I hope to learn and develop by tackling real-world challenges, participating in ongoing training and leveraging the mentorship opportunities available. This experience will be invaluable in building a solid foundation for my career and honing my skills in a dynamic and evolving industry.”
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