C. The banker

While still at the London School of Economics (LSE), Wen Du got some work experience in banking. "LSE helps you to find these work placements but its’ still quite tough, so I had to do loads of networking. When you are eventually looking for a job, you need certain academic qualifications so companies will be interested in interviewing you. But, after that, it’s more about how much you know about banking, so experience while you are still at university is vital. I was working 12-13 hours a day during my placements but you take long hours in your stride provided you are learning. After I finished university, I was offered a job at one of my work placements. However, I had the opportunity to do a master's degree in finance, so I did that first. For me, salary isn’t the main priority in a first job; it’s about how much you can learn and how much responsibility your line manager will give you. I want to do well, but because there are so many uncertainties in our field, I can’t foresee where I’ll be in five years.”