Why did you choose your particular degree course?

I chose Biomedical sciences as I was interested in a career in Biomedical research in the pharmaceutical industry; however my career interest changed over the course of my degree.

Tell us about your employer

Bank of England Central Banking. Customer base - HM Treasury, UK government, commercial banks and financial institutions.

I was recruited onto a 2 year graduate development scheme - Financial Analyst (Technology Stream). Recruitment consisted of an application form, submission of my CV, a Maths & English psychometric test, video interview and assessment centre.

What attracted you to this position?

Professional qualifications-central banking qualification (CBQ) provided by Warwick Business School (WBS) and an opportunity to study towards a level 7 apprenticeship (MSc) in Technology Solutions or Data Science. Public sector-wide range of benefits e.g. private health insurance, discounts off restaurants, cinema tickets and hotels. Inclusive culture and a big focus on well-being Company values-inclusive and diverse

What are the key skills you learnt at Warwick that have helped you with your career to date?

• Problem solving
• Communication skills-verbal and written
• Team work skills
• Analytical skills
• Time management skills
• Organisation skills
• Proof reading work
• Ability to take and apply constructive feedback
• Note taking
• Essays and report writing

What has been your greatest career challenge to date and how did your experience and skills help overcome it?

Adjusting from study to a full-time job. I overcome this by improving my time management and organisational skills e.g. writing to-do lists etc. I also have invested time into non-work activities e.g. volunteering, sports etc. to improve work-life balance and overall stress.

What top tips would you give to students looking for a career in your market sector?

• Be yourself
• Be confident! Don’t be afraid to ask questions
• Read about the companies culture and values. How do you align to these?
• Do your research and background reading about the company!
• Teamwork skills
• Communication skills-verbal and written
• Problem solving skills
• Organisation and time-management skills
• General knowledge about current public affairs, political issues and policy issues
• Make the most of work experience opportunities

What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were applying for jobs?

The engineering is not just limited to pure, technical engineering. Engineering can overlap with many other functions, and whilst there is scope to stay within the pure, technical engineering side of things, if you want to breach out there is plenty of overlap between engineering and other functions, even within this company.

Any additional advice or comments?

To take full opportunity of careers event and the careers advice team at University. There are workshops which can help you with writing a CV or cover letter, interview & Assessment centre preparation and job searching.