Twin Journeys, One Shared Ambition: Meet James and Rozerin

Graduate Apprenticeships at Heriot-Watt University offer students the chance to earn a degree while gaining meaningful industry experience. For twins James and Rozerin Yildirmaz, this blend of academic challenge and real-world application has opened the door to careers at one of the world’s most influential financial institutions, JPMorganChase.

The pair joined the Business Management: Financial Services Graduate Apprenticeship (GA) programme straight from school in 2024—and while their roles within the business follow very different paths, both are thriving thanks to the unique combination of learning and doing that defines the GA experience.

From school to global finance

James and Rozerin completed high school in summer 2024 before stepping directly into full-time roles at JPMorganChase alongside their studies with Heriot-Watt. Each was drawn to the GA pathway for slightly different reasons, but both saw it as an opportunity to accelerate their career development.

James was aware of the GA route at school and teachers, friends and family helped him see Graduate Apprenticeships as a strong alternative to a traditional degree. “Their guidance helped me see it as a valuable pathway after finishing school,” he says.

For Rozerin, the development path initially looked more traditional. “I always planned on doing a traditional degree,” she explains. It wasn’t until she learned more about Graduate Apprenticeships—and saw peers benefit from them—that her thinking began to shift. She even accepted a place on a traditional degree programme before receiving her offer from JPMorganChase.

While their routes into the Graduate Apprenticeship were slightly different, the ability to apply learning in real-world situations was common to both. Rozerin sums it up well “The ability to gain hands-on experience while earning my degree really appealed to me.”.

Diverging roles, shared drive

The roles for James and Rozerin are different but demanding in their own ways. James works in trade support within the private bank, handling major trade flows for mutual funds and contributing to governance and control processes. One of his standout achievements has been helping deliver an automation project. “It gave me experience in project management, product knowledge and stakeholder engagement,” he explains. “I’m passionate about helping to deliver change, and this project gave me the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the team.”

As an Apprentice in Financial Crime Operations, Rozerin investigates potentially suspicious activity to help protect customers. She has also developed confidence and communication skills by presenting at internal and external career events. Her academic projects have fed directly into her workplace.

Balancing work and study

The transition from school to a global organisation is a significant step—and both apprentices credit support from Heriot‑Watt and JPMorganChase as key to their progress.

James acknowledges the significant commitment it takes to succeed at Uni and at work: “Balancing work and studying towards a degree has helped me develop discipline and improve my ability to manage multiple responsibilities I believe that building these skills will benefit me both now and in the future.”

Rozerin had to find her feet in the workplace, following the transition from school: “Getting into the way of university and understanding my workplace expectations was initially challenging. However, finding a balance between both has become easier as I have progressed in the programme.”

Both of them credit a network of supportive managers, mentors, colleagues and University staff as being instrumental in helping them adjust to the demands of University and the workplace.

Why apprentices matter at JPMorganChase

JPMorganChase is one of the world’s largest and most respected financial institutions, with over 200 years of history and operations spanning more than 100 countries. Central to its long term success is a commitment to nurturing new talent.

JPMorganChase sees Graduate Apprenticeships as a core part of its talent strategy.

The company also values its partnership with Heriot‑Watt University. “Our relationship is highly collaborative, with regular touchpoints that ensure we can quickly identify challenges and continuously improve the programme.”

And for other employers considering apprentices, Ashley has some sound advice: “Junior talent requires a bespoke approach. It’s important to have the right infrastructure in place to support all aspects of the apprenticeship.”

Looking to the future

Now in their second year, both James and Rozerin already have big plans for their future in finance.

James hopes to deepen his expertise and eventually progress into leadership roles.

For Rozerin, the path is just as ambitious: “I aim to graduate with a first‑class honours and secure a permanent role at JPMorganChase.”

Their advice for future apprentices

While there are differences in their day-to-day roles, one common area is that both James and Rozerin agree that a GA is an exceptional opportunity – but one that requires commitment. And they have some useful advice for anyone else considering a Graduate Apprenticeship.

James emphasises the long-term benefits: “Recognise the unique opportunity it offers to contribute to an industry, advance your career, and support your personal growth.”

While Rozerin adds a practical note: “Make sure this is the right decision for you. Don’t focus solely on the salary—this journey requires full commitment.”

Twin talents making their mark

James’ and Rozerin’s story reflects the very best of what Graduate Apprenticeships can offer: opportunity, growth, and a head start in a world full of possibility. Through the support of Heriot-Watt and JPMorganChase, they are building skills, making an impact in the workplace, and shaping their future careers.