Okay, as I previously mentioned in an earlier post, I was sponsored by a regional firm that is a subsidiary of a larger insurance company.  They paid for ALL my expenses including books, cd's, dvd's, classes, and licensing tests.  I think that most reputable firms would take care of these expenses.  But I am also sure that the least respected firms on this board like Ameriprise usually pay a "bonus" only to compensate the individuals for their studying expenses they incur.  So in reality, they're just reimbursement checks.

I have not, however, received any compensation for the duration of my studying.  My hiring manager seemed excited that I had a fulltime job at the bank to help with my finances while I studied (of course he was happy so that he wouldn't have to pay me a cent).

My distinguished collegue had an interview a couple of weeks after mine and managed to get the manager to agree to pay him a bonus after he acquired his licenses.  Obviously I know that deals and negotiations are applicable to the specific individuals involved, but would it be absolutely absurd to ask, negotiate, or even demand a similar signing bonus?  If so, how would you go about bringing this up to them after you hand in the preliminary papers.  I can't imagine saying,

"hey mr. manager, here are my signed docs, oh and btw, how about giving me that bonus you offered my friend?"

 I am officially hired tomorrow after I turn in my paperwork and contract, but I still have some big concerns about payout and now the bonus issue.  I don't want to competely turn off my branch manager and make him think that this is a horrible glimpse of what is to come from my hiring.  But then again, if there is a chance that I can get an extra $2000 I am going for it.  Trust me, I am gratefull to have my educational expenses paid for by the firm, but getting a signing bonus wouldn't hurt.  Does anyone have any professional advice on how I would go about this situation.  I do not need to hear judgemental and assuming remarks.  Thanks!