How the AmplifyME Summer Analyst Training Programme Enhanced My Applications

I initially approached a career in finance with quite a narrow focus, only applying to Markets roles without fully exploring other options. After completing a Sales and Trading internship, I realised it wasn’t the perfect fit for me. So, I completed the AmplifyME Summer Analyst Training Programme to explore different areas such as asset management, investment banking, and quant roles, to see what aligned best with my interests. The opportunity to gain hands-on experience across so many roles really stood out to me.

I was also drawn by the programme’s strong emphasis on career coaching, including CV reviews and mock interview sessions, which I knew would be invaluable for the upcoming application cycle.

I initially approached a career in finance with quite a narrow focus, only applying to Markets roles without fully exploring other options. After completing a Sales and Trading internship, I realised it wasn’t the perfect fit for me. So, I completed the AmplifyME Summer Analyst Training Programme to explore different areas such as asset management, investment banking, and quant roles, to see what aligned best with my interests. The opportunity to gain hands-on experience across so many roles really stood out to me.

I was also drawn by the programme’s strong emphasis on career coaching, including CV reviews and mock interview sessions, which I knew would be invaluable for the upcoming application cycle.

I enjoyed all aspects of the programme, especially connecting with the AmplifyME team and other participants. However, two elements stood out to me the most.

First, the Buy-Side Week simulations were the highlight for me. The diversity of scenarios, from ESG investing to hedge fund trading and fixed income, was both exciting and humbling. This experience ultimately inspired me to pursue a career on the buy side, leading to my application to BlackRock’s grad scheme.

Second, the guest speaker sessions were incredibly insightful – hearing from professionals who were once in our shoes and having the chance to ask them questions was so beneficial.

I enjoyed all aspects of the programme, especially connecting with the AmplifyME team and other participants. However, two elements stood out to me the most.

First, the Buy-Side Week simulations were the highlight for me. The diversity of scenarios, from ESG investing to hedge fund trading and fixed income, was both exciting and humbling. This experience ultimately inspired me to pursue a career on the buy side, leading to my application to BlackRock’s grad scheme.

Second, the guest speaker sessions were incredibly insightful – hearing from professionals who were once in our shoes and having the chance to ask them questions was so beneficial.

Absolutely, the programme was a huge help! It gave me stronger technical knowledge, a clear strategy for navigating the application process, and concrete experiences to discuss during interviews – whether from the simulations or the group projects we worked on.

Additionally, the programme helped me identify the specific roles I wanted to pursue, allowing me to craft more tailored applications that demonstrated genuine interest and alignment with the positions. In such a competitive industry, this level of authenticity is crucial for standing out.

Absolutely, the programme was a huge help! It gave me stronger technical knowledge, a clear strategy for navigating the application process, and concrete experiences to discuss during interviews – whether from the simulations or the group projects we worked on.

Additionally, the programme helped me identify the specific roles I wanted to pursue, allowing me to craft more tailored applications that demonstrated genuine interest and alignment with the positions. In such a competitive industry, this level of authenticity is crucial for standing out.

First, reflect on what makes you unique – whether it’s your personal interests, hobbies, or how you approach situations – and fully embrace it. While technical knowledge and frameworks like the STAR method are important, what truly sets you apart and resonates with interviewers are your unique experiences.

Second, avoid memorising scripted answers for interviews and HireVues. I made this mistake in previous years and now realise how obvious it is to interviewers when responses are rehearsed. Instead, focus on speaking naturally and authentically. This takes practice, but with time – and support from resources like the AmplifyME team - you’ll build confidence and perform much more effectively in interviews.

First, reflect on what makes you unique – whether it’s your personal interests, hobbies, or how you approach situations – and fully embrace it. While technical knowledge and frameworks like the STAR method are important, what truly sets you apart and resonates with interviewers are your unique experiences.

Second, avoid memorising scripted answers for interviews and HireVues. I made this mistake in previous years and now realise how obvious it is to interviewers when responses are rehearsed. Instead, focus on speaking naturally and authentically. This takes practice, but with time – and support from resources like the AmplifyME team - you’ll build confidence and perform much more effectively in interviews.