This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.
Rating
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About You
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The Company
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Everything Else
- 1. To what extent did you enjoy the insight?
- 2. To what extent did you feel valued during your time at the company or firm?
- 3. How much guidance/support did you receive during the insight?
- 4. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and information you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?
- 5. How well structured was the insight?
- 6. How was the general atmosphere during your insight?
- 7. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?
- 8. To what extent did the insight help you to understand what it would be like to have a full time role with the company or firm?
- 9. How much did the insight help you in understanding the company culture?
- 10. How valuable was the content in helping you to decide on your future career path?
- 11. Were you paid or reimbursed adequately for this experience?
- 12. Were there opportunities for networking and meeting other employees of the company or firm?
- 13. How were the networking/ social event opportunities?
- 14. Did you find out about activities that employees can get involved in outside of work?
- 15. Would you recommend this insight to a friend?
About You
This has been the single most insightful programme I have ever participated in. I would call it one of the best experiences of my life; I met people from every part of the world, got a true insight into what the Finance division at Goldman Sachs does, had the chance to meet people who already work at the Firm through networking events, insight sessions and work shadowing events.
Very much. We had the opportunity to regularly interact with Analysts and Associates, as well as VPs. We even had a breakfast with two MDs one day, which was so incredible. We were really made to feel like part of the Firm. Everyone was happy to talk with us, to explain things to us. No matter how busy everyone was, they always made time to clear something up for us.
A lot. Each team was given a mentor to help us work on our projects. They made time for us, and would often take time out of extremely busy schedules to talk through our ideas with us. Most touchingly, our mentor was able to attend the final presentation, which was just so lovely. She even was able to arrange meetings with more senior people with us, most notably with a VP in ORMA. Other guidance was available, but it was up to us to get it. We were free to set up meetings with employees and discuss with them.
I have learnt how to better work as part of a team, and to be more confident in expressing my thoughts and ideas, even when I am not entirely sure. These are skills that will prove invaluable in the future, no matter what I go on to do. However, more than that, this insight has provided me with the basic understanding that I need to pursue a career in this sector, specifically within the Finance division.
The Company
Very well structured. The first week was mainly to provide an insight into what each subdivision within Finance does, and to give us a chance to try for ourselves through various case studies. The second week gave us more time to work on our projects and to engage in work shadowing events, which were awesome!!
Within the Finance division, all the Spring Interns became very close. The Firm in general has a very teamwork oriented culture, and prides itself on creating a consensus-driven environment. This totally shone through, and became part of all of our personal cultures. The atmosphere could not have been more friendly and open and welcoming.
A lot. We were given various workshops and presentations on topics such as our personal brand, interview skills and presentation skills. We were even given the chance to network with existing employees several times.
This was essentially the point of the insight week. Indeed, it is what I have taken away from it. We were given a true insight into the culture of Goldman Sachs, which is one of teamwork, collaboration, and of challenging your ideas and those of others. In addition, we took part in work shadowing where we were able to get a glimpse of the ins and outs of day to day life at Goldman Sachs.
Huge insight into the culture. The culture of Goldman Sachs pervades every decision they make, every word they say, and was apparent through how they interacted with us in the insight sessions, work shadowing, networking sessions. The culture is something that has really connected with me, and I thoroughly enjoyed learning about it.
Very, I am now convinced that this is what I want to do in the future.
Everything Else
I had no travel expenses, but those who did were fully reimbursed. Similarly, any people from out of London were provided with accommodation with no charge.
Yes. As mentioned above. And everyone was happy to give their email, so there was the opportunity to build on the initial discussions.
Great. You were able to meet people from all different divisions, not just the one to which you applied. There were also several events just for the interns, so we all got to know each other really well.
Yes. Every year, there is a day when all the employees can go out and participate in a volunteering project.
Yes, very much so. Best experience of my life. I don't know what else to say. Goldman really is the perfect employer, the perfect company. There is something really magical about the culture, the people, and the way in which they all work. These are the smartest, most friendly, most welcoming people I will ever meet, and I hope I get the chance to work with them again in the future.
Details
Insight / Vacation Scheme (< 4 Weeks)
London
April 2016