What We've Been Up To
Posted on September 23rd 2025
Alumni Stories: Zaya
Zaya Vasconcelos
Attended 2022-2024
Zaya studied Business, Psychology and Economics is currently undertaking a degree apprenticeship at Bloomberg and the Walbrook Institute
What are you doing now?
I work as a fixed income specialist at Bloomberg, as part of a degree apprenticeship at the Walbrook Institute. This means that I am studying for a BSc in Finance and Investment while I’m gaining valuable, hands-on experience. As a fixed income specialist within the analytics department, I help to bridge the gap between financial theory and real-world application by working with clients to solve complex fixed income queries related to market theory. I’m proactive in my approach by conducting client calls and delivering tailored training to deepen product understanding and drive engagement.
How have you found your degree apprenticeship experience so far?
I’m thoroughly enjoying it! The topics I study at university often overlap with my work at Bloomberg, which allows me to apply what I’m learning. It’s great to be able to strengthen my theoretical foundation, at the same time that I’m staying sharp on both academic and industry development.
What has been the highlight of university so far?
The highlight of university so far has been achieving a First in both assignments that I’ve done so far. This has been the first time writing an academic style essay and I'm proud of the grades I have achieved.
What did your time at Harris Clapham teach you that you’ve been able to apply to your life since?
My time at Harris Clapham Sixth Form taught me the importance of taking joy in subjects, even if they aren’t directly related to your future career or degree. For example, although I studied Economics, which is related to my work in Finance, I also studied Psychology, which isn’t a finance-related subject. Psychology taught me a lot about the human mind, and I carry this learning everywhere with me. It’s so important to use sixth form as a time to engage with your subjects, even if the application isn’t obvious.
I would also say that the teachers were very supportive and helpful during exam season and UCAS, and that this helped me to stay motivated and organised – skills that I’ve used in my work since.
What advice would you give to current or prospective students?
To current students navigating A levels, I can’t stress enough how important it is to start revising early. The content you learn in year 12 isn’t repeated in year 13, so you should be revisiting the content frequently. Exams will come quickly, and you will regret not revising early enough, so don’t procrastinate and stay on top of revision.
What are your future aspirations?
I hope to continue my career in finance at Bloomberg. In three years, I’ll be able to specialise in different asset classes and expand my knowledge further. After this, I’ll be able to choose between sales or a different department. I’m not sure where exactly I’ll end up, but I’m looking forward to completing my Finance degree and climbing the corporate ladder.