How Jack is banking on success

BSc (Hons) Economics and Finance student, Jack Shillito is putting the skills he’s learned so far on his degree into practice with a prestigious summer internship as a Retail Banking Analyst with Barclays Bank.

The first steps to success

Jack’s curiosity for economics first began during 2020, where inspired by news headlines about changes in the global economy, he chose to study the subject at A level. When the time came to choose a degree subject, Jack knew that he wanted to take this interest further – deciding to explore his options at a University of Derby Open Day:  

“At the Open Day I found out about the different qualifications and experience that I would obtain by taking the course, such as utilising the Financial Markets Lab, completing a CISI exam for additional certificates, and taking a placement after second year.”

Jack particularly liked the wide range of topics covered in the degree, such as global economies and more mathematical and data-based modules, as well as the course structure:

“The course is divided into ways that help reduce stress, such as having weekly mini tests on what you learnt that week, as opposed to one big exam at the end of the semester."

Securing an internship

Having secured a summer internship with Barclays as a Retail Banking Analyst, Jack is excited for the opportunity to apply his learning and gain valuable experience while working for one of the UK’s largest banks.

“I am looking forward to gaining valuable experience in such a large financial institution. Being tutored by experienced professionals in a major bank will provide me not only the knowledge to prosper in a future career but also connections within the industry. It will be insightful to learn about the role and responsibilities of a Retail Banking Analyst to help decide whether it is a path I would like to pursue in the future.”

When reflecting on the advice he would give to students looking to gain industry experience, Jack recommends making full use of the support offered by the careers and employment service within the University, who can help students with securing an internship or placement.

“The University has a careers team who you can go to for advice, CV building help, and 1-1 discussions about placements. You will also get emails from them of placement openings that you could apply for.”

Looking to the future

Looking ahead to where his internship might take him, Jack is keeping his options open and is eager to see where connections builds along the way could lead, he is also excited for the range of career opportunities available to a economics and finance graduates:

“I hope that my internship is helpful in providing me ideas and connections for my next steps. It may even provide me a graduate scheme to work with Barclays as a future career. There are lots of careers in the financial industry to explore, and securing an internship or placement will certainly help you paint a picture of where you want to be earlier.”

Jack has a clear message for anyone interested in studying economics:

“If you enjoy economics, maths or problem solving this course is for you. Taking Economics and Finance is interesting as you get a proactive experience of finance related topics in coursework as opposed to heavy economic-theory like in A-level.”