Tell us about your internship with Schroders

During my internship at Schroders, I’ve had the privilege of gaining exposure to  a multitude of  teams within the organisation including the product, multi-asset, fixed income and equities teams. Over the course of three months, I’ve been immersed in the intricacies of each team’s operations.

One particularly enriching aspect of my internship has been the opportunity to observe and participate in investment meetings across different investment teams. These experiences have provided invaluable insights into the decision-making processes employed by fund managers.

I’ve gained a profound understanding of the factors and considerations that inform investment decisions.  This exposure has not only broadened my understanding of investment strategies but has also prompted introspection regarding my own approach to investment decision-making.

There was a few reasons why I chose Schroders specifically. Firstly, talking with previous intern Jeff gave me insight into the great supportive culture within the organisation. Additionally, the prospect of working within a company with a global presence was enticing. With offices in prominent financial hubs like Sydney, London, and Singapore, Schorders offered an opportunity to immerse myself in a dynamic and diverse professional environment. This combination of a supportive culture and global reach made Schorders an ideal choice for me to gain valuable experience and broaden my horizons in the investment management industry. 

Is this your first internship/role at an investment management firm?

This is my first internship role at an investment management firm, previously I was a consulting vacationer at KPMG.

What did you enjoy most about your internship?

The highlight of my internship experience undoubtedly revolved around the incredible individuals I had the privilege of meeting and working alongside at Schroders. What struck me most was the unwavering support and willingness of every team member to address any queries I had, fostering a truly nurturing environment throughout my internship journey.  Moreover, Schroders’ workforce comprises individuals from various corners of the globe, contributing unique perspectives and insights shaped by their diverse cultural backgrounds. This diversity not only enriched our collaborative efforts but also underscored the importance of inclusivity in the investment management industry. The vibrant exchange of differing investment viewpoints among team members fueled constructive discourse, ultimately enhancing our collective decision-making processes.

Did you meet any mentors/role models?

During my time at Schroders, I had the privilege of meeting several individuals whom I now regard as mentors in the industry. Across all teams, I encountered people who generously shared their wisdom and guidance on navigating a career in investment management. Moreover, I found the organisation’s approach to intern involvement with upper management particularly rewarding. This opportunity provided me with invaluable insights into the trajectory of a future in this industry.

What will you do over the next few years to better position yourself for an investing career?

One of the key lessons I learned during my time at Schroders was the importance of staying on top of financial news and economic changes. Through my experiences, I gained an understanding of the significant impact these events can have on asset class performance. As such, over the next few years, I will make it a priority to consistently stay abreast of key changes in markets and the economy to ensure I can succeed in this industry.   

Did you notice a gender imbalance within the workforce during your internship?

During my experience I felt as though Schroders placed significant emphasis on gender equality. Although I didn’t observe any gender imbalance during my internship, I recognise that there may be obstacles for women entering this field within the broader industry.