Aspiring businesswomen had a taste of life working within a global bank.
Students from USP College Seevic Campus, in Benfleet, and Palmer’s Campus, in Grays, travelled to London for the BNY Mellon networking event as part of International Women’s History Month.
The 37 students, studying business and finance A-level and BTEC Level 3 business, attended a networking breakfast and heard about the company and its values, its early careers programme and recruitment.
The bank has a focus on gender equality, stating: “Firms that do a good job recruiting, retaining and supporting women in the workplace tend to outperform firms that don’t.”
Pauline Wilkins, teacher of financial services at USP, said: “Women are hugely underrepresented in the finance and banking world, so events like this really help to close that gap.
“This was a very well-run event, providing aspiring young women the opportunity to understand what life is like at BNY Mellon.
“They found out about the application process, opportunities for interns and graduates, as well as listening to a panel of current employees who provided great information as to where they started and their progression through the company, and the support provided.
“This kind of exposure and learning these key skills are vital for improving confidence and communication skills in preparation for employment.”
The trip is part of the college’s mission to prepare young people for the world of work, giving regular opportunities to engage with employers.
Throughout their courses, students take part in work placements, listen to speakers, go on trips and take on real-life business projects set by employers.
Links with industry – such as the world’s largest custodian bank – give students unique insight and pathways to their chosen careers.
Financial and Professional Services is one of the college’s five specialist sector areas. Search courses at https://www.uspcollege.ac.uk/get-the-career-you-want/our-specialist-sector-areas/financial-professional-services/
