Meet Krystal Wu

Krystal joined CLSA’s Internship Programme in her final year majoring in Marketing and Information Systems.?Find out how Krystal has created career options and why she ultimately chose to work in IT.

Can you tell us about yourself and your internship role at CLSA?

I am a final year student majoring in Marketing and Information Systems at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. As the Information Technology Intern for the Middle-and-Back Office Application Team, my main responsibility is to assist the front-to-back testing automation for CLSA’s trading system and capacity production planning.

Why did you choose Information Systems as your second major?

I believe a role in Information Technology (IT) will provide me with the opportunity for career ‘diversification’. The adoption of complex IT systems has been growing at a fast pace in recent years and the field continues to generate new roles. Given the high growth in professions that have an IT scope to them, I think it makes sense to add Information Systems as a complementary subject. I’m really excited to see where this combination of marketing and IT knowledge will lead me.

Why did you apply for CLSA Summer Internship Programme?

CLSA has a strong reputation in the Financial Services industry and I am very certain I’d get a good amount of hands on experience by joining this programme.

Before making my application to CLSA, I solicited advice and recommendations from my peers and industry contacts. I was told the CLSA Summer Internship Programme is well-structured with different activities and sharing sessions to help interns to develop practical skills and make connections. So far the experience has lived up to my expectations.?

What gets you most excited in your role?

I appreciate my manager and colleagues taking the time to teach me patiently. In addition to extending my IT knowledge, they explain the processes behind trading and deals. It’s important for me to learn how it all works so I could support the front office with the appropriate IT products and services.

I also like our team’s working style. We have regular impromptu stand-up meetings where we discuss different topics together and where I’m encouraged to share my thoughts. It is a good chance for me to express my ideas and to participate in projects, while at the same time learn from others.

What do you think of Women in Tech and IT stereotype?

I think Women in Tech are awesome. Although IT is stereotyped as the male-dominated department, I believe anyone who is enthusiastic about this area and is willing to make an effort can be successful regardless of gender.

Some people may think IT is just a boring job about coding and system maintenance, but it is much more than that. Apart from technical skills, soft skills are also key to this role. For example, I need soft skills to effectively communicate and connect with a variety of business stakeholders who have different agendas in order to support their needs and make adjustments.

Any tips for CLSA 2023 Summer Internship Programme applicants?

Go to CLSA LinkedIn and website to understand more about CLSA. For the students who also want to apply for IT roles, you may like to do some research about the technology market development, and what technology systems CLSA is using.

What do you like to do in your leisure time?

I really love hiking, I enjoy the scenery while reaching the top. During the pandemic outdoor activities were restricted and we have stayed at home for a long time. I am so pleased we can hike again, hiking is a great activity to relieve stress.