First steps into finance: Advice from recent graduates
Exploring finance is empowering when you have the right foundation. Here you can learn from graduates who have successfully navigated the journey.
Standing out
You’re competing with the smartest minds in every field. In order to stand out you really have to go above and beyond in terms of extra-curriculars and what you are doing outside of the classroom or program.
What star qualities do you have that could wow potential employers? Thinking about how to differentiate yourself is a good place to start when taking your first steps towards a finance career.
Don’t worry if nothing immediately comes to mind. Knowing where the gaps are means you can work to fill them. This could be growing your knowledge with an internship or boosting your skills by taking extra courses.
Your attitude has power
It’s difficult to get qualified and gain valuable experience as a first, second or third-year university student. But it’s your attitude, the way you go about tasks and your openness to learning that will really differentiate you.
At the start of your career, it’s not just your knowledge that will make you stand out but the way you approach your work. This includes asking for help when you need it and actively looking for mentors to support you.
I don’t know many people who have really wanted to get into finance and haven’t been able to, provided they have the right support and are willing to stick their neck out and ask questions, ask for help.
Get curious
I think it’s quite common to get absorbed in the nitty-gritty of things, but being able to understand why things are going on is really important.
On an internship and not sure why you’re doing a task? This is a good opportunity to get curious and find out. Think about what instigated the job you've been asked to do, and what will happen next when it’s complete.
Be courageous
You have to be bold. You have to take the risk even if you don’t think you’re ready. As long as you do your best to prove that you deserve an opportunity, I think that’s a good way to stand out.
Ultimately, there are no shortcuts to success. The secret is often simply working hard and grabbing every chance that comes along.
At the same time, it’s natural to have fears about being underqualified, which may hold you back from going after new opportunities. This is often referred to as imposter syndrome – the belief that you’re not as competent as those around you and are undeserving of your status or accomplishments.
If you feel like this, be kind to yourself and bear in mind graduate Hugo’s advice: “You have to assume that you know nothing and be a sponge. What people don’t realize is that the expectations of interns aren’t as high as what everyone believes.”
Key takeaways
- Stand out – identify your unique strengths and put a plan in place to plug any gaps
- Your attitude has power – demonstrate a proactive mindset by seeking out help
- Get curious – ask questions to understand the bigger picture
- Be courageous – accept you won’t know everything but give 100% effort and say yes to opportunities
Find your fit in finance
Discover which finance career paths align with your passions, strengths, and values.