First-hand advice on how to achieve my goals

Adriana, a student at London Academy, has built connections for her future career after her paid internship at CBRE, and monthly mentoring with Nicky at Pictet Asset Management. This is her story.

“Before the Career Ready programme, I would say I was quite a shy person who would find the idea of public speaking extremely nerve-racking,” says Adriana Ardeleanu, from London. “I would find it quite daunting and start panicking, in fear of saying something wrong.

“After masterclasses, mentoring sessions, workplace visits as well as my internship placement at CBRE, I’m now able to stand in front of an audience and present – even though I may be quite nervous still.

“I have created an important network full of industry professionals, as well fellow students who shared this journey with me.”

An internship with CBRE

Adriana joined the team at CBRE in London for a paid internship in summer 2024. Her role was within the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) consultancy group, which helps clients find opportunities to improve sustainability.

“My public speaking skills and confidence saw a significant difference between the start of the internship and the final day,” she says.

“My time at CBRE was extremely insightful. We were strongly encouraged to present any found research within the ESG department after each task and learn how the different departments within the company work to operate a successful firm.

“I was able to work and expand on many vital skills, such as personal branding and time management. It also presented me with an incredible opportunity to work with other students in a team.

“This internship has opened different opportunities – both through me seeking knowledge on Law, the career I already knew I wanted to pursue, and introducing me to different pathways, such as apprenticeships.”

Support and preparation

Nicky Bloom, from Pictet Asset Management, supported Adriana throughout the programme with one-to-one mentor meetings.

“Having a mentor has helped me realise how to prioritise the appropriate things at the right time,” Adriana says. “She has also played a crucial role in supporting me to prepare for professional job interviews, as well as collecting the information needed for a successful personal statement.

“She’s been able to enrich my knowledge through both her personal experiences, as well as putting effort into me meeting and hearing the experiences of people who work in Law, the area I wish to pursue.”

A glimpse of the future

A workplace visit to law firm CMS was another highlight of the programme for Adriana.

“It was my favourite visit, given it’s the pathway I look to pursue. It was also an incredible experience as it was an event held for International Women’s Day, where various inspiring women gave us valuable insights.

“This workplace visit has helped me realise the importance of perseverance and determination despite a context of gender and background barriers we may face.

“I now plan on studying Law at university and to prepare myself in pursuing a career within this domain.

“Through the rich experiences accumulated from this programme, I was able to interact and form a connection with varied industry as well as legal professionals and receive first-hand advice on how to successfully meet my goals both academically and professionally.”