Project Assistant within Banking Services Review

The job I was given was a year long project updating legal documentation within the department. The project itself was not very interesting or stimulating especially as the project was on an individual basis.

The team did their best to get me involved as much as possible however the work i was undertaking did not overlap with their work. I was treated like a full time employee and my work was seemed to be appreciated.

I was assigned a manager and a buddy whom I had regular weekly meeting and appraisals. The managers made time for me as and when I needed it.

Because my job was project based I could as much or as little as I wanted, however the project did not need a year to complete; it could have been done in 6 months. On the plus side I had time to go on the internet and go to the gym when I wanted.

I was responsible for the running of my own project, a project that was deemed quite important by senior management. On a number of occasions I had to conduct meetings and presentations for senior management.

The skills I developed were largely general office and interpersonal, rather than anything technical. I did attend several courses and completed my ECDL (computer qualification).

The atmosphere was quite quiet and sensible, and there dress code was usually suit and tie. There was however a dress down policy on a friday and you didnt have to wear a tie in the summer.

They had 15-20 students every year all starting and receiving training at the same time. Also placement students are on a 13 month contract so there is a 1 month hand-over period with the previous student.

I went on several courses (for example problem solving and microsoft outlook) and the Bank paid for me to complete my European Computer Driving License. Managers were happy for me to go on more if I could justify it.

A better work/life balance than many other City Banks however the atmosphere is quite academic. The placement scheme does not exempt you from any stages of the graduate process.

Plenty of other placement students and young people within the Bank, and having the previous years placment students arrange nights out helps break the ice. There were plenty of nights out and birthdat parties etc.

The City of London is one of the most expensive areas in the country, and rent/travel can be very expensive. For a cheap night out there are plenty of wetherspoons bars.

Expensive but quality, plenty of choice and always something going on. Around Christmas lots of parties and some of them paid for by the Bank.

Loads of clubs, and teams to join both through the Bank and in the area. I joined a Rugby club and it was a great way to meet people and something to do at the weekend.