internship to graduate scheme

December 13, 2017, by Carla

What to Expect From a Banking Graduate Scheme

By Shubhang Goenka, BSc Hons Management (2016), Technology Solutions Graduate at RBS

After graduating in 2016, I joined the RBS Technology Solutions graduate scheme. I am not a techie or a developer, but I’m very passionate about new technologies.

I chose this programme because it combines my passion for technology with my interest in finance. When I applied, I didn’t know any coding languages or any financial jargon. What they were looking for had little to do with technical knowledge or high scores, it was more about an interest and passion in the sector.

I was very keen on learning how such a large company manages to co-ordinate every small aspect to build a great product for the customer.

From internship to grad scheme

I joined RBS as an intern during the summer of 2015. I worked in the digital space as part of a team producing new iOS applications for the bank. The internship lasted 10 weeks, and saw me take my first steps in a real-world business environment – I’m sure this was more than evident to my team.

At the end of the internship, I was offered a position in the graduate programme. I’ve worked in two different teams over the last year and they have been extremely different experiences.

No two days are ever the same

Every day there are new items on my agenda. It could be emergency problem solving meetings, discussions on my career and objectives, as well as a trip to the pub at the end of the day. Some days are slow and I have time on my hands. Other days are very fast-paced and keep me on my toes.

You’ll absorb a breadth of experiences

I’m currently working as a project analyst in the Commercial and Private Banking division. We’re creating an online tool to allow businesses to take out large loans in a matter of days. This makes access to funds easier for the customer, and brings in more business for the bank.

We’ve got a product to deliver, with different people working on their specialised areas. This is being co-ordinated to make life much simpler for the customer. I work on planning the project timeline, making sure we’re being efficient, presenting updates to senior managers and getting developers the right tools they need.

If you’re considering applying for this programme, then all that you need is a genuine interest in this space. You don’t need lots of knowledge about the financial industry, just the basics.

Application are now open for the Technology Solutions Graduate Programme at RBS, but act fast the deadline is 31 December 2017.

Posted in Alumni StoriesEmployer Insights