I chose to do a placement at SMBC Group because…
I currently study Law at the University of Nottingham and aspire to be a solicitor in the future. Work experience in Law is very difficult to find and highly valued, so finding this opportunity at an international bank such as SMBC was amazing. This placement year has given me the chance to gain more legal experience but also more experience in the banking sector as well.
SMBC also has a great culture, values, and employee networks. Something that stood out to me is that SMBC gives you a set number of paid volunteering hours a year, which is a great benefit if you enjoy volunteering.
My job involves…
Supporting various legal teams within the bank, including Banking Legal and Securities Legal, as well as assisting Legal Business Management. This involves tasks such as joining external law firm relationship meetings, doing legal research, and reviewing legal documents, to name a few.
On a typical day…
Every day differs in my team. A typical day could start with our weekly legal team meeting where we get updates on the work everyone in the team has been doing throughout the week. After this meeting, I might review a legal document such as an NDA or a reliance letter. I could also be compiling information for the monthly reports.
For lunch, I meet up with some of the other interns, often getting lunch from somewhere nearby as there are many great lunch spots, or the office cafeteria. After lunch, I may do some legal training, which could be self-managed or a scheduled presentation. Later in the day, I would have my weekly catch-up with my buddy to update her about my week and discuss any projects that I would be interested in working on.
What I enjoy most about my internship…
I enjoy being able to get a full year of experience in this sector and having the opportunity to gain so much varied knowledge. Being in the office and working with my team is great, as they are so willing to explain anything to me and answer any questions that I have, no matter how small. I also enjoy catching up at lunch with the interns and learning more about what they do in their departments.
Top tips for future interns considering a placement at SMBC Group
Definitely apply! Research the Bank and find out what qualities SMBC has that align with you and stand out to you. Make sure you know about the industry and department you are applying to. Don't try to be who you think they want to see—be your genuine self. Make sure you have time at the end of your interview to ask any questions you may have.