Shree started university life studying actuarial studies. That was before a newfound passion for coding led her to switch to a computer science degree at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). She shares how her IMC internship has been a journey of learning, fresh challenges, and growing confidence.

Changing paths, unlocking opportunities

Shree came across IMC through an ad from a university societyinviting applications for the Women in Trading and Engineering Programme, a two-day introduction into IMC’s trading strategies and technology infrastructure.

“I didn’t think I was qualified to apply to companies like IMC,” she says.“And I wasn’t sure how my engineering skills could be applied to trading. But the programme caught my attention because it felt welcoming and supportive, encouraging women to pursue opportunities in male-dominated fields.”

The Women in Trading and Engineering Programme introduced Shree to the fundamentals of trading and IMC’s dynamic culture. “The programme was fantastic,” says Shree. “It paved my way into the industry and boosted my confidence, as IMC immediately felt like a place where I belonged. This encouraged me to take the next step and apply for the engineering internship.”

Gaining real-world experience as an intern

The summer internship helped accelerate Shree’s growth as an engineer. Over the course of 10-weeks, she learnt how critical technology is to trading, and how she can use her skills in coding and computer science to tackle challenges in IMC’s fast-paced environment.

“The first week introduced us to trading, which was great for someone like me who had very little prior knowledge of the field,” she shares. “We then focused on technical learning, where I was able to apply many of the skills I’d learned at university.”

IMC engineering interns work on a real-life project in pairs. Shree built a user interface for a simulation tool with her buddy.

“The interface allows users to input parameters, fetch data, and display it visually – such as in a graph,” she explains. “It was challenging and exciting to work on something so hands-on. And it gave me a taste of some of the problems IMC engineers work on day in, day out.”

“Don’t hold yourself back”

So, does Shree have a parting message for female students considering an internship at IMC?

“Traditionally, not that many women have pursued careers in software engineering – and even fewer work in finance and trading,” says Shree. “But you shouldn’t let that stop you!”

"The Women in Trading and Engineering programme, and now the summer internship, have acted as a bridge for people like me who might hold back because of self-doubt or preconceptions about the trading industry.

I'm grateful for the effort IMC puts into creating a pathway for women. It's made such a difference!”

Are you ready to test yourself and gain real engineering exposure with IMC Sydney? Check out our internships and programmes today.