Rinalds Gerinovics

What attracted you to choose the University of Surrey and to study your course here?

Receiving an invitation to attend School of Economics applicant day underpinned my decision to come here. It gave me an opportunity to visit the beautiful campus. I remember thinking to myself early on that the abundance of those green and peaceful areas surrounding the university would make up the right environment for me to develop around. Meanwhile, the taster lecture was engaging, making a lasting impression of the School.

What is your strongest memory of your time at Surrey – what do you picture first when you think of being here?

I think of connections and friendships that I developed along with the mentorship that I received from the faculty. At the same time, of course, the graduation ceremony in the cathedral made the experience unique.

What were the best things about your course?

Early on in the programme I felt excited to have a mixture of approaches to learn about the subject. Technical courses helped to establish a foundation that was necessary for later studies, while emphasis on other early courses, such as the one taught on contemporary issues, was a joy to attend. It gave a nice conceptual flavour that nudged us to think about policy relevance of our future work early. The School also has a longstanding reputation in the industry. As I opted-in for a professional training year placement, I came to appreciate the advantage that we had as potential interns from Surrey in the business of economic consultancy.

What do you do now and what do you find most enjoyable about your work? 

I work at the European Central Bank, helping the institution serve common interest of all European citizens. I find it exciting to be in a position where I can help in its commitment to achieve and maintain price stability in the euro area, underpinning the environment for economic prosperity. Moreover, I enjoy being around exceptional colleagues who are dedicated to tackle important challenges facing the European economy in the near future from a central banking point of view.

How did your time at Surrey help you choose what career to go into? 

The School of Economics placed big emphasis on providing us with useful information about different industries. In particular, I found sessions organised by the School with different potential employers important when they came for an on campus visit ahead of the career’s day. These sessions were filled with insights from many different industries that helped me decide on the way forward. 

What is your advice for students aspiring to work in your profession?

My advice would be for students to gain as much work experience as possible before graduating – whether it is a professional training year placement, an internship during the summer or helping faculty at Surrey. The skills and competencies that you will develop during those early experiences will be of high relevance once you enter the industry as a new graduate.