The Department of Finance hosted their first Financial Services Career Seminar designed to help students explore career paths, build connections, and gain real-world insight from professionals across the industry.

The event featured three expert-led panels with seasoned practitioners from across financial services. Students had the opportunity to hear directly from professionals working in wealth management, investment firms, advisory services, and institutional finance, while also networking between sessions.

Across the afternoon, 45 students participated, gaining actionable advice on how to break into the field.

Panel 1: Tips and Tricks on Getting a Job

The first panel focused on practical strategies for entering the financial services industry, including resume advice, interview preparation, and early career decision-making. Panelists shared candid insights on what helped them stand out as candidates and what students should prioritize as they begin applying for roles.

Featured speakers included:

  • Lindsey Holshouser, Fidelity Investments
  • Latifah Mirzai, Mercer

Students walked away with a clearer understanding of how to position themselves competitively and navigate early career opportunities with confidence.

Panel 2: Practitioner Insights – Part 1

The second panel shifted into deeper practitioner perspectives, highlighting day-to-day experiences and career paths within financial services. Speakers discussed their roles, industry trends, and the skills that matter most in today’s evolving financial landscape.

Featured panelists included:

  • Madi Brown, First Western Trust
  • Susan Cattand, Morgan Stanley
  • Jiwei Gu, CFA, Fidelity Investments
  • Taylor Herron, Janus Henderson Investors

This session gave students a behind-the-scenes look at different roles within the industry and how professionals navigate career growth in diverse financial environments.

Panel 3: Practitioner Insights – Part 2

The final panel continued the conversation with additional perspectives from leaders across advisory and investment management firms. Panelists shared lessons learned throughout their careers, advice for standing out in the job market, and reflections on the skills most critical for long-term success.

Featured panelists included:

  • JB Blue, PINE Advisor Solutions
  • Amy Hawkins, LPL Financial
  • Jeremy Held, Bow River Capital
  • Brian Janes, Focus Partners Wealth

Students left with a stronger understanding of the many paths available within financial services and the variety of experiences that can shape a successful career.

Throughout the event, students had the opportunity not only to learn from each panel but also to connect with professionals during networking breaks between sessions. These conversations added an important layer of engagement, allowing students to ask individualized questions and build meaningful connections in the industry.

The Financial Services Career Seminar continues to be a valuable platform for bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, helping students take the next step toward careers in finance.