After coming across a listing for the Broker Trainee position through my university career website, I researched and subsequently applied online through Schwab's career site. The follow up on their end was very prompt (about one week), which is exceptional for a 'big-name' institution. A representative from their HR department called to set up a phone interview at my convenience. I scheduled for the following day and was then contacted by one of the program recruiters. Right out of the gates she broke down the program for me into the following: a detailed overview of the position, the type of person they were looking for in this capacity, and finally, what I could expect of the position in terms of salary and advancement. She then conducted a fairly exhaustive (45 minutes) interview, which explored my academic background, interests and experience relating to the field, and my short/long-term career aspirations. Following this I was given the opportunity to pose questions to the recruiter about the company and program. This, I believe, is where candidates are able to separate themselves from the general pool by posing thoughtful, intelligent, and pertinent questions. As stated by the recruiter afterwards, it greatly helps to show that you have done a deal of research on the company and position prior to interviewing. Having evidently met the candidate profile, I was selected for a follow-up interview, which was to be conducted in person.