Careers Program
The Problem
Most international students entering their first year at university are unaware of how the graduate recruitment process works. As a result, they often miss deadlines and are underprepared for the skills required to secure increasingly competitive internships. These internships are crucial as they typically convert into Full-Time Graduate Employment offers.
The Selection Process
For careers in Banking, Finance, Law, Consulting, Tech, and Global Corporations, a combination of the following filters is used at each stage of the selection process:
C.v.
For careers in Banking, Finance, Law, Consulting, Tech, and Global Corporations, a combination of the following filters is used at each stage of the selection process:
Cover Letter and Prose Questions
A one-page Cover Letter and/or answers to prose questions, often focused on Commercial Awareness. For example:
“Tell us in 150 words about a current business story that has interested you and how it impacts our clients.”
Online Test
Math, Logic, and Verbal Reasoning: Assessing quantitative and analytical skills. Situational Judgement Questions: Evaluating decision-making skills in various scenarios. Candidates choose from a list of options.
Robot Interview
Conducted by platforms like Hirevue where candidates have limited time (one minute, ninety seconds, or two minutes) to record responses to Competency, Motivational, and Commercial Awareness questions. These videos are initially assessed by algorithms and then by Human Resources.
Assessment Days
involves multiple stages
- Often on a business case study where assessors judge candidates' interactions, empathy, analytical, negotiating, and persuasion skills.
- Either group or individual, with limited preparation time.
- Open networking over lunch/coffee with current employees and candidates, where applicants are judged on their ease and social interaction ability.
- One or a series of one-on-one interviews, which may include:
Assessment days
Through our programme, our students have achieved remarkable success and secured offers from renowned companies such as:
Fidelity International in asset management,
BlackRock and Standard Chartered in finance,
DLA Piper in law,
Cushman & Wakefield in real estate, followed by many more.
These successes are a testament to the effectiveness of our program in preparing students for rewarding careers in their chosen fields and interests. Our comprehensive training, personalised mentorship, and access to valuable resources have empowered our students to excel in their professional pursuits and secure opportunities with top-tier companies globally.
With our Careers Program at Rostrum, you will benefit from our boundless support from the moment you sign up, designed to cater to your requirements and needs:
Application Assistance:
We mentor students in navigating the application process strategically, enabling them to showcase their strengths and experiences and position them as standout candidates.
CV Optimization:
With our support, students learn to refine their resumes to clearly and persuasively highlight critical skills, experiences, and achievements.
Interview Preparation:
We prepare comprehensively for various interview types, including video-recorded sessions, HR competency and behavioural interviews, challenging ‘stress’ evaluations, and crucial Commercial and Final Round/Partner interviews. With our mentorship, you’ll confidently navigate each interview stage with the right questions and impressive answers.
Regular Communication:
We emphasise the value of regular and ongoing communication. Weekly check-ins are proposed to maximise student learning progress and potential. However, daily discussions will be scheduled as video rounds or assessment centres approach, focusing on tailored preparation to guarantee readiness.
Session Arrangements:
Sessions with the mentor are scheduled on Skype and emails. They are 30 minutes long and should be arranged at least one day in advance, preferably two days. A five-minute window is provided after the scheduled time; if necessary and required, rescheduling is promptly coordinated.
Application Coordination:
While email is the platform for sharing and exchanging applications, the initial conversations, especially for the first 3 or 4 applications, are crucial. A detailed assessment of each student’s academic background, professional experiences, skill sets, and career aspirations is considered. Our mentors work closely with the students to set clear and achievable goals based on these assessments. She guides effectively, showcasing the student’s qualifications and experiences in their application materials to stand out.
Commercial Awareness Preparation:
In fields such as Banking, Law, and Consultancy, interviewers prioritise candidates who demonstrate a strong understanding of global economic and political affairs and their implications for businesses and clients. Rostrum assists candidates in developing this crucial knowledge through comprehensive training and guidance.
Interviews:
We provide ongoing support and guidance throughout the preparation process by monitoring progress and adjusting strategies as needed by connecting students with relevant resources such as industry insights, networking opportunities, and skill development resources. A personalised plan for approaching interviews is developed, taking into account the specific industry, company, and position students are targeting.
Assessment Centres:
Rostrum mentors adopt a personalised approach tailored to the student’s strengths, interests, and knowledge by conducting thorough assessments to understand their unique profile. This is done by identifying areas of interest and passion within their chosen domain, ensuring students’ engagement through alignment towards preparation effort and their natural strengths and interests.
A strategic plan is devised to help students navigate the assessment centre process by integrating tailored practice mock sessions, interviews, and skill-building exercises. There is also a significant focus on honing and improving necessary skills and behaviours for success in assessment centres.
ABout the Mentor
Gwyn Day, The Oxbridge Specialist At Rostrum boasts over 30 years of experience in financial and education markets. As a Member of Mensa and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, his exceptional IQ places him in the top 0.05%. He has successfully coached high-potential students into prestigious global universities and facilitated their entry into leading financial institutions, law firms, consultancies, and corporations. Gwyn’s personalised approach ensures tailored guidance for each individual, fostering academic excellence and professional success.
Join the rostrum community
By joining Rostrum Education, you become part of a supportive community of students, alumni, and mentors dedicated to helping each other succeed. Let us help you lay the foundation for a successful future.
Contact us today to speak with an advisor and take the first step towards achieving your academic and career goals!
