SU Students Learn from Wall Street Professionals During Annual FMA New York Trip
By SU Public Relations
SALISBURY, MD---Some 28 students in Salisbury University’s chapter of the Financial Management Association (FMA) recently traveled to New York to visit financial institutions and learn from finance professionals in a variety of roles.
Accompanied by Dr. Ani Mathers, FMA advisor and associate professor of finance in SU’s Franklin P. Perdue School of Business, their trip continued a tradition with the organization spanning more than 30 years.
Among the institutions visited were AllianceBernstein, hosted by Spencer Wright ’15; J.P. Morgan Private Bank, hosted by Vice Chairman Ron McGann’88; and the Pacific Investment Management Company, LLC. (PIMCO), thanks to the support of The Mason Companies.
“This was my second year attending the trip, and it’s truly one of the most unique experiences a finance major can have,” said junior Tim Benson, of Damascus, MD, who plans to live in New York this summer for an analyst internship. “I was able to see where I’ll be working, check out an apartment and grab lunch with future coworkers and supervisors.”
Students heard from executives and alumni on insights and advice, and had their questions about careers in private markets answered.
“Membership in the FMA and experiences like the New York trip are so much more than just having fun,” said Benson. “There is a true value and return on investment. From making connections and networking with officials in the apex of their careers to obtaining internships and going on job interviews, the reward and increased likelihood you’ll land a job in the field you want is the best outcome you could hope for.”
Thanks to McGann, students also visited the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), to watch the closing bell on the trading floor. Afterward, they had the opportunity to ask questions and learn about the effects of trade policy on the financial market and the NYSE’s competitive advantages.
“I think something that makes SU very special is our dedicated alumni network,” said Benson. “They go above and beyond to give up their time and resources to give students special experiences and unique opportunities just because they care so much about the quality of education and memorable time spent at Salisbury getting their degrees.”
An SU alumni networking event at The Perfect Pint, organized by Jayme Block’97, M’99, SU associate vice president of alumni engagement and development, provided opportunities for students and alumni to interact in an informal setting. Students made valuable connections and learned lessons about working and living in New York and transitioning from students to business professionals.
In addition to the annual trip, the student-led FMA provides its members with professional development opportunities, and the ability to learn more about the finance industry and careers in finance. The organization also hosts speaking events throughout the year that help students explore opportunities in finance, network with peers and professionals, and gain additional knowledge prior to starting careers.
Students interested in joining the FMA should email Mathers at ammathers@salisbury.edu.
Learn more about SU and opportunities to Make Tomorrow Yours at the SU website.