We caught up with Land Economy graduate Bex, who has just started as an Associate Analyst at T. Rowe Price, since graduating from Cambridge University. She came through the Investments Internship programme to secure her position and gave us inside knowledge on what it’s all about, and how to succeed!
Why did you choose T. Rowe Price and the role in particular?
“I was keen to put the analytical skills I’ve developed from my degree to use in a career in the financial services. T. Rowe Price really appealed to me as they look for people that are curious to learn about investment management, meaning my lack of specific connections or extensive finance experience didn’t matter. It was this, as well as the unique culture at T. Rowe Price, that motivated me to apply for their internship.”
What was the hardest part of the application process? And your favourite part?
“The Assessment Centre was both the most challenging and most enjoyable part of the process. The interviews on the day took place with staff from across the T. Rowe Price team, so I really got a taste of their culture from the outset. The group activity used a real-life stock case study, allowing us to really immerse ourselves in the industry. Again, members from across the team took part, even asking questions at the end of our group presentations.”
What does a day in the life of a T. Rowe Price intern look like?
AM
Every morning starts with a meeting with the international team, which means that colleagues from across the global offices will ring in to join. During this, we brainstorm investment activities, and discuss the trajectory of stocks based on what’s happening in the news.
Next up is a one-to-one meeting with my mentor, who is the Analyst you support as an intern. We use this time to talk through the tasks for the day ahead and discuss any questions.
PM
For remainder of the day, I was free to organise my time to complete tasks in collaboration with my mentor. This could include researching an investment opportunity, building financial models using Bloomberg technology and working on my independent research project.
What’s the most exciting thing you were involved in as part of your role?
“The independent research project is a really exciting opportunity to conduct your own analysis and start to get a real taste for what life as an analyst is like. Being involved with meeting investment teams is also such an exciting part of this role. It’s not unusual to meet with financial controllers at international companies. The impressive client portfolio at T. Rowe Price really consolidated for me that I was working with an industry leader.”
What is the culture at T. Rowe Price like?
“What’s so unique about T. Rowe Price is the flat structure. While you are working with industry experts that have been in the organisation for over a decade, there’s a huge amount of support for the internship programme and the next generation of talent. We were taken for lunch by the lead of the international team during the internship, and we felt fully integrated from day one!”
What are your top three tips to Bright Network members looking to follow in your footsteps?
- Know T. Rowe Price. Make sure to know their investment style, as this will help you to convey your competency and motivation for the role.
- Think about previous experiences that might make you a suitable candidate. Remember, these can be related to extra-curricular activities, for example I spoke about being the captain of a sports team.
- Be honest! Integrity is one of the values at the core of T. Rowe Price, so it’s ok not to know the answer to every question. Use this as an opportunity to demonstrate your hunger to learn.
Congratulations, Bex! If you want to follow in her footsteps, you can find out about live roles at T. Rowe Price
