Alexander Gilbert
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Year of Graduation: 2009Title of Degree: MEng in Electronics and Computer Systems EngineeringDept: Electronic and Electrical EngineeringJob title: Project Manager – financeEmployer: HSBC - Global Transaction Banking |
Your background:
I applied to Loughborough as it had an excellent reputation for engineering; I studied maths, physics and computing at A level and worked constantly since the age of 16 during school holidays and weekends to help fund my university years. I also had a keen interest in sport having played rugby since the age of 13.
Where are you now?
After completing a sandwich year at HSBC on their IT placement scheme, I was fortunate enough to be offered a job on the HSBC graduate programme. I completed the 18 month graduate programme after 6 months as my placement year was used a part of the 18 month programme. I currently work at Canary Wharf in London within the Global Transaction Banking department where my current role is within project management, responsible for the finance of one of the department's global programmes.
How did you get there?
I originally had no plans for a career in the financial sector but had always been keen for a career in managing projects as this was something I thoroughly enjoyed at university. I also never intended to do a placement year, but while attending one of Loughborough careers fairs, I spoke to a representative from HSBC who informed me they had an extremely large technology services department and offered sandwich years to university students. I then spoke to my lecturer who pointed out that students who undertake placement years have more experience and are therefore more desirable to employers. This was the final encouragement I needed to apply for the placement.
Where are you going?
I intend to gain more experience in project management and have recently been undertaking courses to work towards my PMP (project management professional) qualification. I am, as yet undecided as to exactly where my future lies, whether it be within managing IT departments, managing large portfolios of projects, or consulting. For the time being I am happy to gain experience from the bottom up.
What if anything would you have done differently during your time at Loughborough University to help you prepare better for your career/life upon graduation?
I am happy with the way things have turned out. I don't believe I would change any decisions I made. I met lots of fantastic people and formed friendships I hope will last a lifetime.
What advice would you give to a student studying your subject at university now?
There will inevitably be aspects of your course you don't understand as well as others, but don't give up because of one hard module. There will be others that you will find less challenging so don't get disheartened and never be afraid to ask your lectures and friends for help.