"The opportunities are there from day one. Making the most of them is up to you".

_{Why did you choose DWS?}

_{I chose DWS because I didn't want my graduate experience tobe defined by a single role or perspective. The P.A.C.E. programme offers theopportunity to explore different areas of the business and understand how thevarious parts of a global asset manager come together.}

_{In addition, during the interview process, I got the sensethat graduates were expected to become part of the team rather than simplyobserve from the sidelines. Since joining, that has proven to be true. I'vebeen trusted with meaningful work, contributed to projects that support realbusiness decisions, and learned from colleagues whose openness and expertisehave accelerated my development in ways I hadn't expected.}

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_{What has been your biggest highlight so far?}

_{My biggest highlight was the induction weeks in Frankfurt. Before joining, DWS was a company to me; that week was when it became a community. It was a unique opportunity to meet graduates from different offices, functions and backgrounds, all of whom were starting the same journey but bringing completely different experiences and perspectives.}

_{What made it particularly memorable was that those connections didn't end when the week finished. Throughout the programme, I've stayed in touch with many of the people I met there, and it's been incredibly valuable to have a network of peers spread across different areas of the business.}

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_{What have you learned during the programme?}

_{One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that there is rarely a complete picture from any single seat in the business. Working across different functions has shown me how interconnected everything is and how decisions in one area can have implications far beyond the team making them. That exposure has taught me to think beyond my immediate responsibilities and understand the wider business context. It has also changed my understanding of what professional growth looks like. When I joined, I assumed the fastest way to develop would be to become an expert in one area as quickly as possible. Instead, I've learned that some of the greatest growth comes from stepping into unfamiliar situations, working with different teams and embracing opportunities that push you in new directions.}

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_{What advice would you give future applicants?}

_{Be proactive and make the most of every opportunity. One thing I've learned is that people are incredibly willing to help, share their experiences and offer guidance, but nobody is going to map out your journey for you. The graduates who get the most out of the programme are the ones who put themselves out there, ask questions, build relationships and stay curious about areas beyond their immediate role. Technical skills can be taught, but curiosity, adaptability and a willingness to learn from others will take you much further. Most importantly, don't hold back. Two years go by far quicker than you think, so say yes to opportunities, be willing to try new things and make everyday count. The programme offers a huge amount of exposure, but it's up to you to make the most of it.}

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