By Bakr Zalita, BSc Economics with Professional Placement Year 2023
If you are a Royal Holloway (RHUL) economics student interested in a career in economics and looking for an intellectually stimulating and enjoyable placement scheme, the Government Economic Service (GES) could be the perfect place for you. In this blog post, we'll explore the application process, share some tips and hints, and provide insight into what you can expect from the experience.
What was the application process like?
The GES application process is designed to be straightforward, but rigorous. You'll start by filling out an application form, followed by numerical and verbal reasoning tests. If you successfully pass these tests, you'll be asked to complete two competency questions. If you are successful again, you'll be interviewed by a participating government department. During the interview, you'll be asked both Macro and Microeconomics questions, as well as further competency questions.
Any tips or hints for the application process?
Maximising your chances of success during the GES application process involves utilising all the available resources at your disposal. The career office at RHUL can prove to be an indispensable resource, providing invaluable guidance and feedback through practice interviews. The insights gained through these sessions will help you understand and address any areas of weakness in your approach.
When it comes to the economics aspect of the application process, it's recommended that you revisit your first-year Macro and Microeconomics studies. The questions asked during the application process should not exceed the complexity of the theories and models taught in your introductory coursework. By refreshing your knowledge of these foundational concepts, you can ensure that you are well-prepared to tackle any related queries during the interview process.
My experience
As a student economic analyst at the GES, I found the experience to be intellectually stimulating, enjoyable, and highly analytical. The role provides an opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects and departmental outputs that involve informing and shaping departmental policy and advising ministers. No two days are the same, and the role presents an opportunity to take the lead on various projects, enhancing your leadership, organizational, and time management skills.
In addition to honing your traditional economic analysis skills, the GES encourages you to develop your programming skills and even offers a financial incentive of £1,000 to learn to program. What's more, the friendly and supportive culture of the civil service ensures that you'll have access to all the help and resources you need to succeed in this exciting role. For students seeking to make a smooth transition from university to the workplace, the GES represents an ideal environment to build a foundation for a successful career.
What’s next?
Upon completing your placement year with the GES, you will be enrolled in the highly competitive Economics Assessment Centre (EAC). This is a crucial step towards securing a graduate role in the following year. Unlike your initial placement interview, the EAC is considerably more demanding and challenging, and therefore, it is crucial to begin planning your revision strategy as soon as you begin your placement scheme. With that said, it is vital to remember that practice makes perfect, and the best way to ensure success is to be fully prepared for the EAC.
How to overcome rejection/failure
Rejection and failure are a natural part of life, and they can be hard to handle. However, they can also be used as an opportunity to grow and become better. If you're rejected from the GES placement scheme, don't be disheartened. Use the feedback provided to improve your interview techniques and work on the areas where you were weak. This will be pivotal to improving your chances of success in the future, should you choose to apply to the GES again.
Feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn for more information or advice www.linkedin.com/in/bakr-zalita-43726b1a9