Viraj is a Computer Science student from the University of Warwick. He secured a place on the Banking and Markets Spring Insights Program at Bank of America in London, through Bright Network. 
First, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
“My motivation for pursuing a career in trading stems from my fascination with financial markets and their intersection with technology. I have an analytical mindset, am curious and have a drive to solve complex problems and have consistently sought opportunities to apply quantitative reasoning and explore patterns in data.
Engaging in personal trading ignited my interest in market dynamics, especially the use of quantitative methods to predict price movements and optimise strategies. The challenge of interpreting vast amounts of data and making high-stakes decisions in real-time excites me.
I see trading as a sector where I can continually learn and innovate, leveraging my technical skills in coding and data analysis to contribute meaningfully to a team. I’m drawn to the competitive and collaborative nature of the industry, where success requires both individual expertise and collective effort.”
What are you most proud of about your journey?
“I’m most proud of being able to network with new people to gain insights into the culture at the Bank of America. Being able to ask questions and start new conversations really helped to develop my confidence.”
What motivated you to apply for the role?
“I was drawn to the Bank of America Spring Week in Global Markets because of its reputation for fostering talent and providing unparalleled insights into financial markets. Bank of America stands out to me for its strong emphasis on innovation and its use of cutting-edge technology to deliver client-focused solutions. As someone with a keen interest in trading and quantitative research, I'm particularly inspired by the bank's ability to adapt to market changes while driving sustainable growth.
The opportunity to explore global markets during the Spring Week aligns perfectly with my passion for understanding macroeconomic trends and market dynamics. The programme offers an invaluable platform to gain exposure to areas like trading and sales while networking with industry-leading professionals. I’m excited by the prospect of learning from experts and seeing how my analytical and problem-solving skills could contribute to such a dynamic environment.
This role not only provides a chance to explore my interest in financial markets but also aligns with my goal of pursuing a career in trading, where I can combine my technical expertise and strategic thinking to make a tangible impact.”
What was the application process like?
“The application process was exciting and insightful. I began by carefully tailoring my CV to highlight my academic achievements, trading experience and technical skills, ensuring they aligned with the skills sought for a role in global markets.
I sought feedback from mentors and peers, which helped refine my application and present my strengths more effectively.
For the HireVue assessment, I prepared by researching common interview questions, practicing concise and structured responses and staying updated on current market trends. I also reviewed key financial concepts and how they connect to global markets, ensuring I could demonstrate my knowledge during the video interview.”
What have you learnt from going through the process?
“Going through the application process has taught me the important of preparation, attention to detail and the importance of being able to effectively communicate my strengths.
I learned how crucial it is to align my experiences and skills with the firm's values and the role's requirements. I was pleasantly surprised by how structured and insightful the process was, particularly the HireVue questions, which challenged me to think critically and articulate my thoughts concisely.”
Tell us about the future. What’s next?
“I’m excited to deepen my understanding of global markets and develop the skills needed to thrive in a fast-paced, data-driven environment. I look forward to building a career in trading, where I can combine my analytical and technical expertise to solve complex problems and make impactful decisions.
I’m particularly eager to learn how macroeconomic trends and innovative technologies shape market behaviour, as well as how I can contribute to a team navigating these dynamics. Through opportunities like the Bank of America Spring Week, I hope to gain hands-on experience, refine my quantitative and strategic thinking, and continue growing as a professional in the financial industry.”
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