Rodney joined Merrill Lynch last year after completing a 10-week internship at the bank in 2005. He read economics at Royal Holloway, University of London, and is currently working as an analyst within Merrill's European Leveraged Finance division.
What prompted you to do a banking internship?
I was intrigued by the idea of going into banking. It had always been something I wanted to go into, so an internship was a really useful way to find out what it was really like. It gives you hands-on experience.
I saw it as a win/win situation because you are getting fantastic experience and also getting a taste of something you might like to do when you finish your degree.
Did you intern in the department you are working in now?
Yes. It was a rotational programme so I spent two to three weeks in different areas, such as chemicals, corporate finance and so on. You get to try everything out and then you home in on the one or two areas that you like best.
How was the internship spent?
They try to mimic the reality of what it's like being an analyst. So I was working very closely with all the different teams.
What did you gain from the internship?
I learnt that it was a very exciting job, that it was glamorous but there was also a gritty side to it, particularly around the long hours. But it's a very supportive culture, and it was a lot of fun too.
There were a lot of social activities – we even had a cocktail evening on the Merrill Lynch roof, which was fantastic. It was clear that those who enjoyed themselves and demonstrated the most keenness, even when you are working until 1am, were the ones who were more likely to convert the internship into a permanent offer.
Some interns used to leave at 6pm and did not take the opportunity to spend time talking to their mentors or senior directors, which I think was a real waste.
Rodney's tips
- Demonstrate a passion for the job, hopefully one that is natural!
- Try to fit in from the start, try to become part of the furniture of the team. If it gets to the point where you are missed when you are not there, you're doing well.
- Enjoy it. Take full advantage of the opportunities on offer and ask as many questions as you can.
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