Parents & Family

Is Your Sophomore Interested in Finance?

The top investment banks, private equity firms, and other highly competitive financial organizations begin actively recruiting for their key junior year summer analyst programs this Fall. This means your student’s preparation window is open right now. It’s time for them to engage with recruiters, learn the fundamentals of finance, and be prepared to apply.

The Office of Personal & Career Development, in partnership with the School of Business, is offering a finance accelerator program. This program is held over two Saturdays and includes the following sessions:

• Mastering Technical Knowledge: Hands-on training on essential concepts, including financial statements and Excel fundamentals, facilitated by an industry leader, Training the Street.

• Interview Preparation: Interactive workshops, resume reviews, and recruiter-led sessions that give you the practical strategies to succeed in your internship search.

• Insider Connections: Peer Success panels that provide real-world perspectives and valuable networking opportunities.

Details:

Cost: $100.00 per student for the two sessions (Retail Value: $1,100).

Requirements: Students are required to attend both sessions.

• Day 1: Saturday, October 18, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

• Day 2: Saturday, November 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

More detailed information can be found here.

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Recruiting

We are pleased to announce two upcoming career and continuing education events for your students, whether they are in the College or School of Business.  

Finance & Accounting Networking Night

• When: October 16, 6-8 p.m.
• Where: Benson University Center, Room 401
• What: This is a fantastic chance for students to connect directly with organizations that are looking to hire for finance and accounting roles.
• How to participate: Students just need to register in Handshake and then sign in at the door.

Graduate, Law, & Professional School Fair

How to participate: Students can register in Handshake and then sign up for a specific chat session with any representative they’d like to speak with about their programs and admission specific chat sessions with program representatives to discuss programs, admissions criteria, and more.

• When: November 5, 1-6 p.m.

• Where: Virtually via Handshake

• What: Admissions representatives from graduate programs in all kinds of fields—arts, sciences, medicine, law, and more—will be available to chat one-on-one with students.

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For Your School of Business Student

As the fall semester progresses, encourage students to remain active in their internship and job search process. Success is achieved by doing small things consistently and well. The Market Readiness & Employment career coaches offer four tips to help your students stay engaged and position themselves for success:

1. Update Professional Documents and Connection Tools: Students should ensure their resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and other professional materials are current and aligned with their goals. A polished resume and a well-maintained LinkedIn presence create a strong first impression and can lead to meaningful opportunities.
2. Amplify Networking: Encourage your students to connect with alumni, attend employer information sessions, and engage with faculty and staff. Building authentic connections and asking thoughtful questions provides valuable insights and can result in referrals.
3. Aim and Apply: Students are encouraged to apply with intention. Rather than submitting numerous generic applications, they should research roles and companies that align with their interests and values and then tailor their materials accordingly. This approach demonstrates precision and purpose.
4. Attend Events: Many events including career fairs, employer panels, and industry deep-dives, are available on campus (example). These gatherings connect students with the professional world and offer insights into industry trends, expectations, and pathways to success. A well-timed conversation can lead to a valuable opportunity.

Upcoming Event: What is Private Equity?

• Participation: Students must register in Handshake and sign in upon arrival.

• Date: November 5, 6-7 p.m.

• Location: 111 Classroom, Farrell Hall

Description: This event will provide an overview of private equity and career paths within the industry, led by Peter Brockway, Executive in Residence and Adjunct Professor of the Practice, School of Business. Mr. Brockway has over 30 years of industry experience.

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For Your College Student

We trust your student has had a restful fall break. For College students, the Career Education & Coaching (CEC) team recommends these post-fall break action steps.

1. Update Career Interests in Handshake: To receive more relevant communications about events and opportunities, students should ensure their career interests are current in Handshake.
2. Schedule a Career Coaching Appointment: A career coach can assist students in creating a tailored action plan to help them achieve their specific career goals.
3. Initiate an Opportunity Search: Students should begin their search on Handshake and other relevant platforms. This not only helps them find potential opportunities but also allows them to identify in-demand skills they can then add to their resumes.

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First-Year Students

If you have a First-Year student who is considering a career in Investment Banking, Private Equity, Asset Management, or Sales & Trading, they should attend one of the mandatory Pre-Wall Street Career Track information sessions on either Oct 22 at 5 p.m. or Oct 30 at 5 p.m.

The Pre-Wall Street track provides:

• Rigorous Training: Targeted coursework and activities through their Sophomore year that focus on real-world application.
• Deep Mentorship: Direct access to dedicated faculty, staff leaders, and highly-involved alumni with market connections.
• Skills Mastery: Experiential learning and tools training to make them immediately marketable.

More details here.

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What can you do as a parent?

Parents play a critical role in their child’s college experience and their decisions for the future. However, the world of work is quite different than 30, 20 or even 10 years ago. In order to give your student sound advice, it is essential for you to understand the environment, resources and opportunities available for your student. You can play an integral role as your student navigates through their time at Wake Forest and makes plans for their future.