Intern Feature: Rachit Jain

Over the Fall 2017 session, I participated in a six-month long Co-Op program at State Street Corporation in Boston, MA as a Financial Reporting Analyst under the State Street Global Services division. My responsibilities included preparing quarterly and yearly financial statements for different private equity and real estate funds and ensuring the accuracy and reasonability of the figures by adhering to both client demands and internal control procedures.

HOW DID YOU FIND THIS OPPORTUNITY?

I first learned about this opportunity at the Isenberg Career Navigation Series seminar where I gave my resume to the recruiter from State Street. I applied through IsenbergWorks and the State Street website.

WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE LIKE AND WHAT DID YOU LEARN?

It was an exhilarating experience and these six months flew by really quick! I learnt a lot about private equity investments, accounting standards, fund structure and valuation methods. It was interesting to regularly communicate with teams from Canada, India and New Jersey to research and resolve issues at various levels of Financial Reporting. I greatly improved my Excel skills during this internship and was also lucky to receive training on automation programs. The future of technology in the financial services realm seems very fascinating!

The most important aspect of my Co-Op for me was building a professional network. I joined various Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and attended networking events, workshops and fundraisers where I met professionals from various departments at State Street as well as other financial institutions and public accounting firms. One of the executives also agreed to provide me with mentorship throughout college. I also learnt about the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility. Under the State Street Global Outreach Program, I volunteered as a teacher at Cathedral High School in Boston for six weeks and also volunteered at other community events sponsored by the company. 

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER STUDENTS?

I would highly advise students on an internship to look beyond their official role in the company and engage in various activities the company participates in (for instance, most major companies have ERGs) and meet as many people as possible (including other interns). I was very hesitant at my first networking event but I became comfortable and confident especially as everyone in the company was so helpful. I would also encourage students to participate in a Co-Op as it considerably helps in learning about workplace etiquette, communication in a professional environment and having professional discipline. Lastly, I would advise students to enjoy the experience and work honestly as if you are a permanent employee and your team will definitely notice and appreciate your efforts.