Pathways into Finance with Goldman Sachs

On Thursday 29 January, we were delighted to welcome Sasha B (Priestley, 2020-25) and Janine Glasenberg for our Pathways into Finance evening. More than 150 pupils and parents attended the event, which featured a fireside conversation hosted by Ellen Weaver, Foundation Careers Lead with Sasha, first year apprentice, and Janine, Managing Director and Head of Recruitment EMEA at Goldman Sachs.

The aim of the evening was to demystify the finance sector, exploring the wide range of roles available, the different routes into the industry, and what recruiters are really looking for. The discussion also focused on the practical steps students can take now to set themselves up for future success.

Sasha offered valuable insight into her own journey, describing the transition from A Levels into a degree apprenticeship at Goldman Sachs. She spoke about what drew her to this alternative route, and the exciting, as well as challenging, aspects of combining full-time work with academic study. The conversation highlighted degree apprenticeships as a powerful alternative to the traditional university pathway, giving students the opportunity to earn a salary, gain real-world experience and complete a degree simultaneously.

Janine brought her expertise from the recruitment side, outlining what students can expect during both apprenticeship and graduate application processes. She emphasised the variety of backgrounds that thrive in banking, from humanities to STEM degrees, and the importance of demonstrating a genuine interest in the financial sector.

With pupils from Fourth Form to Upper Sixth in attendance, the speakers explored what young people can be doing right now to prepare for their futures. A clear message emerged: curiosity, engagement and taking advantage of the rich opportunities available at Mill Hill are key to discovering personal interests and building essential transferable skills.

At a time when the future of jobs can seem uncertain, Sasha and Janine left the audience inspired, with a clearer picture of the finance profession and confidence in the many pathways open to them as they take their next steps.