Technology Spring Intern Review

I highly enjoyed the insight programme. It has been an amazing opportunity to obtain insight into the technology sector in Barclays, such as cyber security, advanced analytics and monetisation and so on. The networking sessions were well-structured and provided us with an in-depth understanding of the various careers in technology. I particularly enjoyed the work shadowing sessions.

I felt valued throughout the programme. Barclays has provided us with everything that we needed, including breakfast and lunch daily, with an allowance for the 5 days. All employees were friendly and welcoming, as well as happy to answer any questions we have. There is a real sense of community at Barclays.

We received immense support and guidance. We had an app with chatting facilities and an agenda of the whole programme about a week prior to the programme. We have been guided throughout the insight with advice on any queries we had, particularly during the networking sessions and two work shadowing sessions.

One of the activities was on social styles. We took a quiz and found out our social style, which let us better understand our strengths, our weaknesses, and what drives us. This is helpful for working in a team, for we now understand that everyone is different, and to respect that.

The insight was well structured. There were several insight sessions on the various sectors within Barclays technology, two work shadowing sessions, several networking sessions with graduates and senior management, as well as a group project that we worked on throughout the week. We also had sufficient breaks with refreshments at intervals.

General atmosphere was friendly and welcoming. The fellow springers were all really capable and from diverse backgrounds. Graduates were happy to share their journey and offer advice. Other employees were happy to answer any questions we had and share what they do, in a job they all seem to highly enjoy.

The company really invests in not only technology but also its people. We were given opportunities to develop skills in a comfortable and relaxed environment. This includes a CV workshop and teamwork tasks. The speakers for insight sessions shared their career journeys and offered valuable life advice, as well as career advice.

The insight gave me great opportunity to understand what it would be like to have a full time role within the company. I learned about the various roles and gained deeper insight into those roles during the work shadowing sessions. Talking to current employees also allowed me to visualize what it could be like to work for Barclays in the future.

Barclays places very high importance on its company values. They are continually reiterated by all employees, and reflected in how they work, how they talk and how they carry themselves. These are respect, integrity, service, excellence and stewardship. The company culture is very centered on upholding and practising these five values.

This week provided me with a good indication of potential career prospects within the company and the technology business as a whole. I learned about the various roles available, and what they involved. Coming from a non-technical background, I was unsure of where I could fit in at the start of the week, but I now have a much clearer idea.

I stay in London so my travel expenses were not reimbursed. I did however receive allowance £250 for the week.

Yes, there were plenty of networking opportunities. There was a large networking session with the functions springers as well, along with the functions and technology graduates. Besides, there was a senior speed networking session with senior members of staff. We also had the opportunity to shadow current employees, with two work shadowing sessions.

Abundant.

Yes, especially if you are interested in technology, or considering a career in technology. It is also helpful if you want to learn more about technology in banking. It is a great opportunity to learn, to gain insight and to meet new people. There really is nothing to lose by applying!