Amy McElroy

BA (Hons) Risk Management 2.1, graduated 2007

Responsible for: Global Marine Cargo Insurance and Risk Management Programme, Global Property Damage & Business Interruption Insurance and Loss Prevention Programme, Political Risks/Terrorism Insurance, Business Travel Insurance.

Background: During the summer between by 3rd and 4th year I was fortunate enough to have a summer internship at the company I now work for. This involved moving to London for 3 months. I knew that once I had this exposure to the London Insurance Market that this is where I wanted to be when I graduated. As soon as I returned to university for my final year I started completing applications forms every week for graduate programmes/jobs in London (as many graduate programmes close in early November of the previous year before intake). It was hard and on many occasions I didn’t get past the online assessment stage but you have to keep persevering, it’s especially tough competing with the Universities in the South of England which are better known to many companies in London.

Tips for students 

• When you meet people from the industry remember to network, ask for a business card. Don’t be offended if they never respond to your emails, but one person that you network with might provide you with a lucky break.

• When going for interviews, never hassle the company about the date or time being inconvenient. If you don’t have a job you have to make yourself available at any time.

• Remember to research the company you’re going for an interview with, scan the news of the previous week/month to see if there are any current issues with the company. This will show you’re interested.