We are thrilled to have welcomed 42 talented interns onto our 10-week summer internship programme at Mizuho EMEA. As our summer interns settle into their teams and roles, we take a look at how their first week has already set a strong foundation for their time here.
From day one, the Early Careers team set our interns up for success with a dynamic and immersive experience designed to build both technical and soft skills. They engaged in an extensive training programme that included sessions on cultural and self-awareness, financial literacy, human resources and compliance, as well as sustainability and inclusion.
In addition, they met with their managers and teams from the departments they will be working in, including Markets, Banking, Finance, Operations, CSO, IT, and Risk. This gave everyone the opportunity to get to know each other better before working together.
Networking and building relationships
Our Early Careers team also organised several engaging team-building activities and sessions for the intern class of 2025. The events aimed to foster friendships and facilitate smooth teamwork at Mizuho. Additionally, every intern was paired with a buddy who will provide guidance and support throughout their time here.
To celebrate the end of week one, we hosted a fun scavenger hunt with nibbles and drinks – because hard work deserves a little fun too.
Hear from our interns – how was week one for you?
"I’ve really enjoyed the wide range of sessions and activities put on by Mizuho during the first week. These sessions have really helped us in getting to know the other interns better and teaching us more about the bank and what to expect for the rest of the internship. The week has been both engaging and fun, with lots of time to build stronger relationships with one another and our teams, and has concluded with an enjoyable intern social organised by Mizuho."
- Leia Weiler, Banking Department Intern
"'Fruitful' would be an understatement to describe the first week of my internship. The comprehensive training not only prepared me well for the weeks ahead, but also made the transition far less stressful. Through networking sessions and even casual chats in the pantry, I’ve already come to appreciate Mizuho’s warm and welcoming community."
- Jan Chan, Corporate Strategy Office Intern
"My first week at Mizuho was a fast-paced blend of finance, networking, and fun! From insightful sessions on sustainability and cultural awareness to thorough financial training, everyday offered something new and interactive. What really stood out was how welcoming Mizuho is to individuals from all backgrounds and how you feel like part of the team from day one. And as a bonus, the end of week scavenger hunt was a great way to learn the area, do some unexpected cardio, and discover just how competitive the interns can be!"
- Taranpreet Kandola, Information Technology Department Intern
"I really enjoyed my first week at Mizuho. I particularly appreciated the opportunities we had to speak with our team and line managers beforehand. This helped me get to know the team better, and it also gave them a chance to get to know me before working together. I found the breadth of training, especially the financial modules, very helpful in providing a broader understanding of different functions across the bank. It was also great to connect with the wider intern cohort. The end-of-week social was a lot of fun and I got to meet interns I had not spoken to yet. I am looking forward to learning more on the desk and continuing to build relationships."
- Ishaq Ullah, Global Markets Department Intern
"What's impressed me the most so far is how much Mizuho puts their employees at the heart of the business. I found the cultural awareness session interesting and engaging, and it was a great experience to learn more about the culture of the company. My first week has been a truly great experience and I cannot wait to start on my team next week!"
- Ellie Cawston, Risk Department Intern
"The biggest lesson I have taken away from this experience is to not be afraid of change. Moving to a new city for the summer and surrounding myself with new people can be quite intimidating. However, I have learnt the importance of building meaningful relationships and being more confident. Week one at Mizuho has been incredible, easing us into the role and connecting with our teams and other interns. I am extremely excited to part take in the sustainability project, and I cannot wait to be at my desk, bond with other interns, and get involved with the networks."
- Ria Gill, Finance Department Intern
Over the coming weeks, these talented individuals will gain first-hand experience in the dynamic world of corporate and investment banking, from in-depth training to hands-on projects. We can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make and the bright futures ahead.