Why did you choose RCI Bank for your internship?

“I’m currently studying for a BSc in Economics at Exeter University, which involves spending a year working for a company in my chosen sector. When I was trying to find something suitable, RCI Bank stood out for a number of reasons. I knew I wanted to work in the financial services sector to strengthen my understanding of the industry and I liked the idea that RCI Bank isn’t one of the big high street banks. As an entrepreneurial company, it gave me the opportunity to work on various initiatives with a range of different teams, meaning I really got stuck in from day one.

“When I was interviewed at RCI Bank there was a really positive energy to the office; it just felt like somewhere I wanted to work. Luckily, they offered me a job!”

What does a typical day look like for you?

“While there is an element of consistency to my role (I do things like checking market rates and running data every day) it definitely isn’t your average desk job and no two days are the same. There’s a huge amount of collaboration between teams, and being able to contribute to conversations with people from all aspects of the business has been incredible. There is a real sense at RCI Bank that your opinion is valued – if anyone spots a way to improve a process or a product, it’s taken into account.

“There’s also room to play to your strengths. As I am quite analytically minded (I am an economics student, after all) I chose to work on several technical numerical tasks. I’ve learnt how to do things with excel I didn’t know were possible… Yes, that’s a good thing!”

What is the culture at RCI Bank like?

“The culture at RCI Bank was a huge selling point for me. Its open and friendly approach to business is mirrored by its revamped office space, which encourages people to walk around and talk to each other. Thanks to its bottom up management style, I really felt like my contributions to the business were valued from day one – whether that be my desk work, or suggestions in brainstorm sessions. I was encouraged to get involved with practically everything.”

What’s the best thing you’ve done so far? What has been the most challenging?

“The Spark event (a three-day business workshop) we held in early May was a real highlight for me because I had the opportunity to learn about developing a business strategy – something I’ve always wanted to do.

“One of the biggest challenges when I first started was learning how to communicate professionally. It might sound strange, but nobody at school or university really teaches you how to construct a professional email, or word a sensitive email chasing senior staff. It’s a real skill!”

Has working at a savings bank changed the way you think about money and savings?

“If anything, I would say it has reinforced my conservative attitude to money. I prefer to save up for things I really enjoy in life like holidays, or doing things with my family and friends, rather than spending it on things I don’t need.”

What’s next for you?

“Next, I’m off to London to undertake another work placement with a stockbrokers. In September I’ll go back to Exeter for the final year of my degree before hopefully graduating in July.”

Do you have any advice for students looking for an internship?

“My number one tip would be to really invest time in your CV – make it look and sound great, and tailor it to each company you send it to. Consider the placements you apply for carefully because to genuinely stand out, you should be as invested in a company as you expect them to be in you. I also can’t stress enough how important practice is. There’s usually an assessment aspect of the application process and the more of them you do, the easier they become.  I would say just try to be honest and be yourself. Ultimately, the company just wants to get to know the real you.” Lastly, don’t be disappointed if they say no, it’s all experience and part of the learning curve.

What’s your dream job... both realistic and fantasy?

“My dream job is to be my own boss and to have the freedoms associated with owning my own company. Sadly, I am still working on the million-pound idea. My fantasy job is anything that allows me to travel the world in luxury. That’s not asking for too much, is it?”