Securities Spring Intern Review

It has been the best experience of the year thus far. The corporate culture was egalitarian; people were always willing to help you out and teach you new knowledge. The feature of the week was undeniably bumping into Lloyd Blankfein in the elevator! He was coming into the office for a talk and serendipity led me to meet him. Surprisingly, he initiated a conversation with me, to which I froze and failed to react.

We were treated just like employees at the firm. Just like all full-time employees, we were given a GS account and had access to GS research and portals. We were blessed with the opportunity to meet with partners and managing directors, who treated us with respect and geniality. Most importantly, we are always reminded that people are GS's greatest asset.

The Human Capital Management team was incredibly helpful, providing us with well-managed time tables to help us navigate our internship. If we had questions about a particular project, it is easy to reach out to an expert and ask for their advice. The business spotlight sessions and market wrap sessions provided us with substantial insight to prepare us for desk rotations.

As a maths major, the knowledge I acquired are not exactly transferable to my degree studies. Nevertheless, this internship will play a catalytic role in elevating my work ethic in my studies. The environment of GS is blessed with driven, talented and hardworking people. This has exerted a positive influence on me, as I will emerge from the internship possessed with a new work ethic.

The insight was immaculately structured. We were given timetables and desk allocations on the first day. I don't remember any activities being cancelled or delayed. The mixture of business spotlight sessions, desk rotations, group activities and networking events provided a comprehensive outlook on the industry. The insight was structured to gradually build up your technical knowledge and network.

Everyone was amicable, driven, inquisitive and talented. I have not encountered a single outlier. Thus, the general atmosphere is collegiate and motivating. Walking into the trading floor evokes a desire to work. There is a prominent networking culture so everyone is willing to take a few minutes off their busy schedules to chat with you.

We were paid an adequate amount to cover city living expenses. Many managing directors and even partners participated in the training program. A lot of staff devoted time in teaching us new knowledge.

Moderate. We did not have any work that emulated the full time role. However, after hearing accounts from different people on the trading floor, I got a clearer sense of what it would be like working full time in the firm.

I walked out of spring week with improved work ethic and awareness.

Extremely valuable. I know for sure that sales and trading is a suitable for me.

We were paid a decent salary (considering we contributed nothing to the firm) and travel expenses on the first day were reimbursed. Accommodation was provided.

Plenty. Women's networking drinks, women's networking lunch etc. We were encouraged to email certain employees to seek networking opportunities.

A bit fake. HR emphasised that every interaction with staff would be relayed to them for feedback. Hence, most people networked for the sake of establishing a good impression rather than genuine interest.

Not really. We we allowed to join gym classes though.

This is a thorough, comprehensive and intense spring insight program. I would strongly recommend it to anyone serious about a career in finance. However, I wouldn't recommend it to friends who are just exploring their options or building their CV.