Speakers

Image of LEAP 2023: Panel 20 - Women in Finance

LEAP 2023: Panel 20 - Women in Finance

Jendayi Leben-Martin ’24
Major: Politics
Minor: Gender Studies
Nexus: in Law, Public Policy and Human Rights

Interning in Securities and Derivatives at a Corporate Law Firm

Last summer, I interned in the Securities and Derivatives department at Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP, a corporate law firm in New York City. Despite having little finance experience, I worked on a team that served a Fortune 500 client (Citigroup) and was responsible for drafting legal documents that I would then file with the SEC for some of Citi’s investment deals. Administrative tasks like managing communication between Citi associates and DPW partners and tracking deal filings were also major aspects of my internship. Though this internship was not my first time in a corporate law environment, I learned a lot about networking, professional communication and my interest in the finance industry during my time there. I hope to shed light on legal internships, as I now have three under my belt, and inspire anyone interested in law to try an internship that may seem out of their comfort zone.

 

Nicole Lutalo ’24
Major: Economics and Politics double major

Navigating Business Operations in the Investment Management World

Financial organizations have so many crucial components that are essential for them to work effectively, and this summer I had the opportunity to gain firsthand insights into the intricate workings of all those components working in the business operations wing of an investment firm. Throughout my presentation I will discuss the various responsibilities I took on in this role by working on projects that involved financial analysis, business process enhancement as well as data driven decision making. I will explore how this experience enriched my knowledge and skills and also instilled in me a profound appreciation of the multifaceted nature of the finance world, the place I am hoping to begin my career. I look forward to sharing my experience, and I hope to inspire those who would like to explore a similar path.

 

Vanessa Dickson ’25
Major: Economics and French double major

The Reality of Interning: My Experience at Bank of America's Enterprise Credit Division

This presentation provides a candid and introspective look into the reality of interning within the financial sector, focusing on my personal experience at Bank of America's Enterprise Credit Division. While the initial anticipation of the internship held high expectations, the actual journey proved to be a different story altogether. This narrative explores the challenges, surprises, and valuable lessons learned throughout the internship. From unexpected tasks to shifting perspectives, the presentation delves into the dynamic world of corporate finance and offers insights into the adaptability and resilience required in navigating the complex terrain of the banking industry. Join me as I share a raw and unfiltered account of my internship, offering a glimpse into the real-life experiences of an intern at one of the world's leading financial institutions.

 

Wendy Wang ’24
Major: Economics and International Relations double major

Data analysis & Problem-solving in the Finance Industry

In the dynamic world of finance, data analysis and effective problem-solving are crucial skills that help you succeed in your career. This panel discussion aims to talk about my summer internship experience with data analysis, which involved generating reports based on data analysis from databases, analyzing market trends, and standardizing corporate pension tables. Additionally, I will discuss how I improved my problem-solving skills at work, learning to work independently. My presentation will explore how to apply the economic data analysis skills that I’ve gained from classes to work. I will discuss the working relationship between me as an intern, and my colleagues. I am excited to share my experiences and inspire those with similar interests.