Dirk C. Scheepers

University:
Kutztown

Degree Subject:
Finance

Desk:
Middle Distillates

My role as an intern varied greatly but focused around providing assistance to the brokers on the desk. For instance, on the middle distillates desk there were tasks such as sending timely and accurate price information on the products quoted. A keen sense of understanding and technical skills is needed to do this without error. Then an intern would be responsible with updating the spreads on the expansive spreadsheet that calculated price fluctuations.

I received extensive theoretical training as well as on the job experience. I received support and advice from the employees on the specific desks as well as the human resources department.

The intern group of 2009 participated in a fund raising effort for a non profit organization called Summer Search. We were divided into groups and had to work together to garner donations for the benefit of Summer Search. There were also various social gatherings like bowling night and the intern dinner.

The most daunting task during my desk rotation was becoming familiar with the specific desk products and accompanying vernacular in a short space of time. Really understanding the products and all its facets and peculiarities were a challenge but it was one that I relished.