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- An interview with Gumana Hamid, a first-year economics and politics student at Royal Holloway University who has secured multiple internships in Finance.
An interview with Gumana Hamid, a first-year economics and politics student at Royal Holloway University who has secured multiple internships in Finance.
Welcome to "In Their Shoes," where we explore the experiences of students navigating the professional world. Today, we feature Gumana, a first-year economics and politics student at Royal Holloway University. Gumana shares her journey, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she encountered while exploring a career in finance. From her initial interest in economics to securing multiple prestigious internships, Gumana offers valuable advice and insights for fellow students aspiring to break into the finance industry. Join us as we delve into her story and learn from her experiences.
Could you start by giving us a quick introduction of yourself and what attracted you to a career in finance?
Hi, my name is Gumana. I'm a first-year economics and politics student at Royal Holloway University. I just finished my first year of uni. I didn't start thinking about finance until my final year of high school. Initially, I was more interested in STEM fields, especially the medical field. But during my A-levels, I developed a keen interest in economics and how it influences everything, from running a country to everyday financial systems. By the end of my final year, I decided to pursue economics at university. Before starting my degree, I learned about spring weeks, and their importance in building a career in finance. I discovered this information on TikTok, where many creators share their experiences and tips about finance careers. This piqued my interest in the field and helped me understand the connection between economics and finance.
That’s fascinating. Did you take any specific steps to get ahead in the competitive field of finance?
Yes, I did. I realized I needed something to talk about during interviews, so I started attending networking events and signing up for programs with social mobility foundations like SEO London and UpReach. These organizations help students from minority backgrounds break into various industries. Through these programs, I attended networking events and met professionals who shared their experiences and insights. This helped me understand the reality of working in finance and articulate my interest in the field during interviews.
Networking events can be intimidating for some people. What advice would you give to those who are shy or unsure about attending these events?
It's natural to feel intimidated, but you have to put yourself out there. Everyone I met at these events was helpful and eager to share their knowledge. Start by introducing yourself and asking questions. You can also attend with friends to ease the pressure. Over time, you'll gain confidence and realize it's not as scary as it seems. Just be open, friendly, and curious.
You've secured internships with J.P. Morgan, Deloitte, and Janus Henderson Investors. Can you tell us a bit about each experience?
Sure. At J.P. Morgan, I did a five-day Spring into Finance program. We learned about different areas like investment banking, global markets, asset management, and more. There were panel events, group tasks, and activities that simulated real job scenarios. It was an insightful experience.
At Deloitte, I did a two-day Spring into Audit program. Although I initially wanted to explore consulting, I found audit work fascinating. We had panel events, case studies, and presentations to senior management, which provided a great learning opportunity.
The Janus Henderson internship was through UpReach and focused on investment management. It involved panel events, networking lunches, and a stock pitch activity. This experience gave me a good understanding of the investment management industry.
Based on these internships, do you have an idea of what path you want to pursue in finance?
I have a better idea now. I enjoyed the global markets and asset management aspects at J.P. Morgan, and I found audit work at Deloitte surprisingly interesting. I'm still open-minded and want to explore more before deciding on a specific path. Each area has its unique appeal, and I want to gain more experience to make an informed decision.
What are your main takeaways from your spring internships?
My main takeaway is to pursue what you enjoy. You'll be spending a lot of time in your chosen field, so it's essential to find something you're passionate about. Also, be open-minded. There are many different roles within finance, and you might find something unexpected that fits you perfectly. Keep learning and stay curious.
How did you prepare for the interview part of the hiring process?
For the HireVue interviews, I prepared by structuring my answers to common questions like why I want to join finance and specific firms. Using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) helped me articulate my responses clearly. I also researched each firm thoroughly to understand their unique qualities and what they look for in candidates. Being commercially aware and keeping up with current events in finance also helped me stand out.
Thank you for sharing your experiences, Gumana. Do you have any final thoughts or advice for our readers?
Just be open-minded and proactive. Sign up for opportunities as soon as you see them and don't hesitate. Networking and gaining real-world experience are invaluable. Always strive to learn and grow in your chosen field.
In conclusion, Gumana's journey exemplifies the power of proactive engagement and continuous learning in forging a successful career in finance. Her story, from discovering her passion for economics in high school to securing coveted internships, offers invaluable insights and advice for fellow students. Emphasizing the importance of networking, staying open-minded, and actively seeking out opportunities, Gumana's experiences serve as a roadmap for navigating the complexities of the finance industry. Her dedication and strategic approach are a testament to how students can achieve their professional aspirations through determination and adaptability.