As part of my MSc Finance, Technology, and Policy programme at the University of Edinburgh Business School, our cohort had the incredible opportunity to visit BlackRock’s Edinburgh office for our winter trek. It was our first company visit, and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to the world of finance and technology.
From the moment we arrived, I was struck by how welcoming the BlackRock team was. For such a large, global company, I had expected a more formal atmosphere, but everyone made time to connect with us and share their experiences. The day kicked off with a presentation from Kieron Smythe, Head of Aladdin Engineering, whose humour and approachable nature instantly put us at ease. I was surprised to learn just how crucial Aladdin, their powerful platform, is to BlackRock’s operations. Like many of my peers, I had always associated BlackRock with finance alone, so it was eye-opening to see how much technology drives their success behind the scenes.
When it came time for the breakout sessions, I was drawn to the Digital Assets discussion, especially since our visit came shortly after BlackRock’s Crypto ETF had gained so much attention. Adam, our host, was clearly passionate about the topic, and it was fascinating to hear BlackRock’s vision for the future of cryptocurrency and digital identity. It gave me a whole new perspective on the innovative work happening behind the scenes at firms like BlackRock, where finance meets cutting-edge technology.
The day continued with a warm and inviting lunch, where we had the chance to chat more casually with many of the employees. What really stood out to me was how approachable and down-to-earth everyone was. I had expected more formal conversations, but instead, I found myself in relaxed, open discussions with people at all levels of the company—from recent graduates to those who had been with BlackRock for years. I distinctly remember one conversation with an employee who shared their own transition into the finance industry, which really resonated with me as I prepared for my own next steps after graduation.
To wrap up the day, we had a Q&A session with employees at various stages in their careers. I appreciated how open and honest everyone was about their journeys—the highs and lows, the successes, and even the uncertainties. Hearing their stories reassured me that BlackRock is not only a place where people succeed, but also a place where they support and collaborate with each other along the way. It left me feeling excited and hopeful about the possibilities ahead.
Looking back, this visit to BlackRock was just the beginning of many memorable company treks throughout Edinburgh and the UK, all made possible by our amazing Student Development team. Each visit has been a valuable learning experience, and as I prepare to step into the job market, I feel more confident and ready. These experiences have provided me with not just industry insights, but also a network of inspiring people I’ve been fortunate enough to meet along the way.