Kiaan*, a Career Ready student from London, completed his paid internship at Marsh McLennan. It’s helped prepare for his next steps, applying for degree apprenticeships. This is his story.
“Before Career Ready, I wouldn’t say I was introverted – however, I mostly kept to myself and the people I know,” Kiaan says.
“I would say I had low confidence, especially when it came to tasks like presenting to a large group of people. I was unsure of what to pursue after school.”
A better picture of the working world
An internship in the data analytics department at Marsh McLennan helped him start to explore potential career paths.
“I was helping to resolve queries and sort data sets. I also had to create a presentation on ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) and how it will impact the insurance industry.
“My internship made me much more confident within myself. It’s helped my time management skills, as I had to balance both preparing for my presentation and work – and overall, it’s given me a much better picture of the work environment in the financial industry.
“I was able to expand my network, with other interns and my team at Marsh. This opportunity has opened me up to data analysis as a potential career I could pursue.”
Exploring my options
Kiaan’s Career Ready journey also included workplace visits to JP Morgan and PA Consulting.
“This widened my perspective of the financial industry and different fields – consulting is another path which caught my interest,” he says.
“My mentor also helped me lay out what my possible options are – where I could research a bit more to see if it fits my plans. He also helped me create my CV, prepare for interviews, and touch on what skills I’ll need in the future.”
Clear goals for the future
After Career Ready, Kiaan’s confidence has grown, and he’s surer of his next steps.
“Now, I try to take opportunities which take me out of my comfort zone,” he says. “I’m far more confident at presentations than before and I have a clear goal of what I want to do.
“I’m completing my A-Levels and applying for a multitude of different degree apprenticeships.
“My main plan is to enter within one of three fields – accountancy, data analysis, or consulting. My time at Career Ready has drastically improved my soft skills and interview skills, making my applications less of a bumpy road.”
*Name has been changed for confidentiality purposes.
