"Always do what you are afraid to do". American poet Ralph Waldo Emerson believed this was the best advice to give to youngsters. With increasing competition for highly paid graduate jobs and the hyperbolic reputation of the City, it is understandable why starting your career in the Square Mile might be a fearful prospect. I met with three recent graduates unafraid of challenging themselves, and asked how the City really looks today to those at the start of their careers.
David Mckeown, working at a leading management consultancy having graduated from the University of Glasgow, explained the continuing pragmatic attractions of London to those with initiative: "There is lots of opportunity here. Working for a big company in their headquarters is a great start to your career. You can also expand your network beyond colleagues and discover other opportunities". Navneet Lehl, a graduate from LSE at RBS, enjoys the thrill of recent controversy. "Working in an industry of paramount importance causing vast debate amongst the population is a highlight. Also bumping into Boris Johnson riding a bicycle twice has been somewhat of a highlight!" Khan Kassim, a graduate from Kings College working at an established law firm says: "the geographical location makes London accessible to and for both Europe and the USA. There are incredible volumes of business opportunities. However, Singapore has a unique location too for trade with key emerging markets. Coupled with its efficient infrastructure and diversity, it is a key competitive, attractive hub".
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