Celebrating Student Success with the AmplifyME Programme

We sat down with two of our first year undergraduates who have been selected as 'High Potential Candidates' due to their performance in the finance and banking simulations. They have been offered free access to advanced simulations, with the opportunity to be fast-tracked for internships and graduate jobs with high profile employers. 

Mikhai is a 1st year student on the BA Economics and Aiden is studying the BSc Economics with Finance. Here is what they had to say about their experience: 

Why did you decide to take part in the AmplifyME programme?

Mikhai: Having heard about AmplifyME during one of my first university lectures, I was immediately intrigued by its approach to teaching students about finance through workshops, simulations and Live QnA's. I decided to take part because it offered real-world simulations and a chance to explore roles in trading and asset management. 

Aiden: I decided to take part in the AmplifyME programme because it offered an easy and accessible way to gain hands-on experience in the finance industry. The in-person introduction to the AmplifyME platform here at 18HÂþ»­ was also highly engaging, and made the opportunity even more compelling.

What has been your favourite part of the programme so far?

Mikhai: My favourite part has been the live simulation experience, where I got to step into the role of a trader and make decisions in a fast-paced environment. I gained so much knowledge and had great fun as well.

Aiden: My favourite part of the programme so far has been the Finance Accelerator simulations. They’re fast-paced and fully interactive, putting you in the role of an asset manager or investment manager, where you actively manage portfolios or facilitate transactions. The need to quickly communicate with other participants to negotiate trades and prices makes the experience intense and highly engaging.

What skills and/or experiences have you gained?

Mikhai: I've developed stronger analytical thinking, improved my decision-making under pressure, and gained valuable insight into financial markets and investment strategies.

Aiden: Through the programme, I've gained valuable insights into the finance industry, particularly from a careers workshop that helped me make crucial improvements to my CV. AmplifyME also do an excellent job of breaking down what different roles in the sector actually involve -  something that I think is often overlooked. More specifically, the Finance Accelerator simulations have helped me build skill in reacting to real-time news headlines and understanding their potential impact on asset prices.

How are you planning to take advantage of the High Potential Candidate benefits?

Mikhai:  I look forward to having more of a chance to immerse myself in more simulations to build my portfolio and strengthen my CV. I also have heard that HPC's are referred by AmplifyME to big corporations, which I look forward too, and am truly grateful for.

Aiden: Although I wasn’t able to attend the recent interview workshops, I did take part in the commercial awareness academy, where participants discussed recent financial news and developments like trade deals and growth forecasts. I fully intend to make the most of the benefits offered to high potential candidates, whether that's exclusive insights into careers in finance or advanced simulations, as each presents a valuable opportunity for me to continue developing.