Citi Scope Review

I really enjoyed the way that we were assigned a group with whom we sat for all 3 days of the programme. I found it interesting hearing from some of the leaders in their industries about what they do, and also having the chance to meet many analysts, who were very easy to talk to and willing to provide advice.

Many of the representatives from Citi commented how they had previously participated in an internship or insight programme, and how some participants might go on to hold senior positions in the future. As a result I feel like they understood our position and were very keen to get to know people. I think it was particularly interesting that whilst outside a networking event in a local bar a number of senior employees from Citi approached 2 of us, because we were wearing Citi badges, to find out more about what we were doing with the company, and they were keen to support the event.

The ladies coordinating the programme were very friendly and always available to ask any questions about how the week was running. There was always somebody around during lunches or breaks to point us in the right direction if we were lost.

It has informed me enormously about in which area of the financial services industry I am interested in pursuing a career. We also had the opportunity to work in a team, and to present to a large group which will benefit me in my degree and in any career that I go into. I also think one of the most significant benefits was learning to network, both with representatives from Citi, and my peers on the spring week, and to approach people I don't know and make conversation with them.

We were kept busy for the whole 3 days and managed to cover lots of different information. I just felt that on Friday afternoon the week tailed off as people had interviews at different times. The interviews themselves were scheduled really well, and they took into account people who had to leave early for flights etc., but it might have been possible to have had some form of activity. (I read somewhere about the people from HR doing a CV clinic last year.) Regardless, by this time we had got to know a lot of people so this time off was a good opportunity to get to know them better.

Generally people were very enthusiastic and friendly towards one and other.

We didn't do much personal training, as the purpose of the week was more about understanding what area we would want to do training in. However, there is a session on how to understand financial jargon and some theory behind the markets. Also through the 1 on 1 work shadowing session I was able to learn more about a specific area. Other than this, developing the ability to work in a team and present to a group was significant.

I very much enjoyed my time during the week, and whilst it isn't possible to learn everything about life at the company in 3 days, I am certainly inspired to find out more. I think through meeting with employees at informal networking events we were able to gain quite a good insight into what it would be like as a full time employee.

As above, I think it is hard to find out everything in 3 days, but seeing how the employees interact (especially analysts) certainly helps. Talking to as many people as possible is the best way to discover this, and Citi Scope certainly allowed contact with a wide range of people.

It has definitely educated me on different career options. Whether my decision now is easier or more difficult is debatable, but it is better to find out as much as you can early on so that you can make an informed decision, rather than just going by reputation or what you have heard of before.

We were given accommodation in a hotel during the week, and reimbursement for expenses over £20.

A large proportion of the week was focussed on this.

It was great to participate in informal networking such as the pub quiz as well as more formal networking opportunities. Also staying in the same hotel as the other people doing the insight is a good opportunity to meet them outside of the work context.

People were very focussed on discussing their work/career because we were often limited for time, so I don't think this question occurred a lot.

Absolutely