Insight Review at Financial Services Authority (FSA)

The Role

Role Description

We would listen to presentations given by different members of staff form various departments to gain an insight into what the FSA actually does. We participated in solving case studies, and were given invaluable advice on careers available at the FSA and given opportunities to network with trainees.

1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

It was a real eye opener into the work that the FSA undertook. The staff were very friendly and this made a real difference as I felt I could integrate into the culture with ease.

2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

They were very friendly and although some tasks were challenging we were always encourages to contribute. Our opinions were valued.

3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

We were kept involved through out and the staff would ensure that we participated fully, giving us confidence to ask questions through out, and if we needed extra guidance it was enthusiastically provided.

4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

Our day was mapped out, and at times would get exhausting, but that is only because the nature of the work was involving. However, the breaks for tea and coffee were planned perfectly and so the correct balance was struck.

5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

As it was an insight programme, we were not given too much responsibility. We were, however, encouraged to be independent.

6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

I learnt so much about a career in financial regulation. It answered every question I had before hand. I also picked up skills such as those I learnt in the negotiation exercise which will benefit me throughout my life.

The Organisation

7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

It was the right level of fun and work. The atmosphere was professional but supportive at the same time.

8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

I was very impressed with the quality of the insight programme. Every 15 minutes were timed perfectly! We fit alot of different sessions into a space of 3 days.

9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

We were made to feel like valuable members, and given various tasks to complete which challenged us ad developed a variety of skills such as communication and networking.

10. What were the perks on your work placement?

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

• Company Parties/Events
• Travel loan

11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

I really enjoyed my placement and am seriously considering a career in financial regulation as a result.

Other Information

12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

We did enjoy ourselves and went out for dinner every night.

13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

We were reimbursed our costs for dinner, and there were a variety of different restaurants we could choose from to suit all budgets.

14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?

★★★★★★☆☆☆☆

Rated 6/10

We didn't experience any nightlife, but I assume central London will be very good.

15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

We were able to go for dinner outside every night.

In addition to these questions, is there any extra information you would like to leave about your experiences on your work placement that other students may be interested in?

I would highly recommend this insight programme to anyone interested in a career in finance. It was an eye-opener into what financial regulation really entails and was challenging yet highly enjoyable.

Review 66/92 for Financial Services Authority (FSA)

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