UK spring scheme advice for a humanities student going to a target

To maximize your chances of success in securing spring weeks as a humanities student at LSE, here’s a breakdown of advice based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Balancing Applications for Finance, Law, and Consulting Spring Weeks

• Time Management: It’s definitely possible to apply to multiple industries, but it requires strong organization. Finance and law spring weeks often have overlapping deadlines (October-November), so prioritize early applications for firms that review on a rolling basis.
• Focus on Quality: Tailor your applications to each industry. For finance, emphasize transferable skills like critical thinking and communication. For law, highlight your analytical and research abilities.
• Social Balance: Starting university is a busy time, but setting aside a few hours weekly for applications and prep can help you stay on track without sacrificing your social life.

2. Finance Spring Week Technical Knowledge

• Behaviorals vs. Technicals: For spring weeks, behaviorals are more common, but basic technical knowledge is still important for HireVues and interviews. Your current focus on learning the basics (e.g., sell-side vs. buy-side, WACC, three financial statements) is a great start.
• Recommended Topics:
  • Understand the three financial statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow Statement) and how they connect.
  • Learn basic valuation methods (e.g., DCF, comps, and precedent transactions).
  • Familiarize yourself with market concepts like beta and equity vs. debt financing.
• Resources: Use free online resources like Investopedia or YouTube for foundational knowledge. If you want to go deeper, consider WSO’s financial modeling templates or guides.

3. Psychometric and Situational Judgement Test Prep

• Timing: Start practicing as soon as you begin applications. Many firms include these tests early in the process, and being prepared can save time later.
• Free Resources: Before subscribing to JobTestPrep, explore free practice tests available online. Some firms also provide sample tests on their websites.
• Subscription Strategy: If you decide to subscribe, wait until you have a list of firms you’re applying to and their specific test requirements. This ensures you’re not wasting time or money.

Additional Tips:

• Networking: Attend LSE finance and law society events early on. Networking can provide insights into the application process and help you stand out.
• Leverage Your Humanities Background: Highlight your unique perspective and skills (e.g., critical analysis, communication, adaptability) in applications and interviews. As noted in WSO threads, humanities students can bring valuable, nuanced insights to finance roles.
• Persistence: Applying to spring weeks is competitive, but don’t get discouraged. Tailor your applications, keep learning, and stay consistent.

Good luck with your results and applications!

Sources: A Helping Hand to Humanities Students, Liberal Arts Undergrads: A few tips to land THE internship, Talk me out of law school (HYS law)