Over the past month, my team at Rock The Street, Wall Street has coordinated 100+ university and high school sessions across three countries, talking with young women who are eager to pursue finance careers. They’re full of questions about the types of jobs available and what to expect. While the questions vary, they generally fall under three broad themes: finding stability, making a difference, and building connections.
When encouraging this new generation of workers to consider a career in finance, it’s helpful to acknowledge their concerns and address them in a way that feels relatable.
Theme #1: Finding Stability
High school and college-aged students are coming of age at a time of great uncertainty. Their lives are shaped by the impact of social media, COVID-19, rising inflation, and economic volatility in the age of AI.
It’s no surprise that they’re craving stability. New college graduates say it’s what they want most in a job, according to RTSWS students and the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Nearly every time we put students in the same room as a financial professional, you’ll hear the question: “What’s your typical day like?” Though probably accurate to say there is no such thing as a “typical” day, it’s important to consider why the question is being asked. Lately, in my conversations with female PMs, they often provide insight into their career explaining regular activities, strategies, and collaboration. Students seek some level of predictability and look to better understand the role.
Theme #2: Making a difference
McKinsey research underscores how deeply the next generation values sustainability and social justice. Many students we engage with seek ways to make a positive impact and explore how a career in finance allows them to do so.
Let’s help them connect the dots. Many students we talk with lack familiarity with the financial industry, so their knowledge often centers on standard job descriptions such as accountant, banker, or financial advisor. When you start talking about areas such as impact investing or microlending or green finance or municipal bonds, students begin to recognize how finance shapes communities, how corporate programs can make a real difference, and how employees are often encouraged to give back.
Theme #3: Building connections
To many, finance can still feel intimidating without a direct industry connection. When at university events, we often receive questions about building networks and finding a mentor. We launched the Career Center to help students gain access and navigate this world. Through our office hours, mentoring, and coffee chats, we help open doors to internships and early job opportunities.
If you have financial expertise or training, I encourage you to talk with a student. Even if you don’t have time for a regular commitment, spending 30 minutes on an occasional phone call can make a difference; volunteer today with Rock The Street, Wall Street.
What questions are you hearing from students about financial careers?
Ashley Leftwich, RTSWS CEO
