First Step Review

It was extremely insightful into the industry of investment banking. The simulation games we played were engaging and challenged us to think like a potential investment banker. I particularly enjoyed the trading game, although stressful at times it was interesting to be presented with those situations. We also listened to presentations which taught us valuable skills.

I felt like we were definitely appreciated during our time, there were a lot of future opportunities presented to us and I could see that they were interested for us to pursue those future ventures. The games included everyone as we were given specific roles to play and everyone was enthusiastic to make us improve.

I felt in the simulation games we could ask questions about the game if we were unclear after the first explanation. During the networking sessions everyone was extremely friendly and explained clearly whatever question I presented them with. People were not intimidating so I felt like I could ask 'silly questions' so I could grasp the industry.

The industry was thoroughly explained during presentations, which helped me make a more clear judgement of what career I may want to pursue in the future. The seminar on sales was extremely useful as it gave me tips not only on how to sell a product but how to public speak confidently, a valuable skill in whatever walk of life.

We were given time tables at the beginning of the three day insight, which meant that I knew exactly what entailed. The days were jam packed but not excessive hours which was nice as I wasn't exhausted when I came back which didn't discourage me from being enthusiastic the next day. The issue was addressed of not being able to finish preparation of the presentations as we were given more time on the last day to fully prepare.

Everyone who I met was really friendly and I could tell that a lot of hard work had been put into the days as they were really well organised. The two HR ladies were really approachable and everyone who did the presentations seemed extremely enthralled in their said roles. This made me think that if I was lucky enough to pursue a career at Nomura I will be surrounded by like minded individuals who encouraged me to be passionate about whatever role I would be doing.

The interview preparation was extremely valuable for the future there was a seminar of what questions may come up in an interview. Not only were we presented with these pearls of wisdom, we got to practice these skills in a mock interview conducted by one of the people who worked there. The people introduced us to the next steps that we should take if we want to work at Nomura.

The presentations given by the various people gave us insight into what their role entailed and what qualities are needed to pursue that particular sector. The networking sessions gave us further personal detail of what the various roles are that are available to pursue. People seemed honest in those answers and advised me on what route to take degree wise to become the best possible candidate.

The company's culture was made clear in the student panel question and answer session, when asked the question 'Why Nomura?' the response was always the people that I am immersed with. Across the board that was the general feeling, when I asked other people in the networking sessions they replied the same answer. Also, it is a bank culture but it isn't as ruthless as other banks such as Goldman Sachs who relish in the fact the cut a large percentage every year.

In the networking sessions we were given personal advise on what to do to in the future with what internships to specifically apply to and how to ensure you 'get a seat on that bus'. It didn't actually mean that you needed a degree in economics or maths related which is a common misconception. I personally want to study Politics, Philosophy and Economics so I know that this is a viable degree to have to go into the industry.

I was not paid however lunch was provided every day. It was an extremely nice lunch with various hot options accompanied by salad. Water was provided without the day, this was extremely valuable as everyone was breaking a sweat running around in the various games. We shouldn't have been paid as they were giving us the valuable knowledge.

We had a networking lunch every meal time. We were exposed to a lot of the different roles that are in the bank. The first day the networking was with front office so like traders and sales people. The second day there was opportunity to talk to middle management, people in the ICT department and compliance.

They were at the time during lunch so it was hard to multitask between eating and networking with all the different people, however that was just an obstacle you have to face when you're there when you're meeting with clients etc. There was a wide array of people who were there from analysts who had been working there for about a year to vice - presidents.

One person I spoke to who was a Vice President in Mergers and Acquisitions was heavily involved in various charities and did a lot of sport related fund raisers. Nomura do donate a lot of money to charity so are interested in people who are committed outside work. There is a gym in the office so there is an opportunity to go to the gym and there are various classes that are available to get involved in such as pregnant yoga class.

I would definitely recommend to a friend who is interested in investment banking as it was extremely insightful into how the industry works. The people you meet on the course are also extremely interesting and friendly, I feel like I have made friends that I will stay in contact with as they are all in the same position as me so I can relate to their ambitions.