Deadline Extended! 2023 Boston Finance Trek, January 16 – 20, 2023
The 2023 Boston Finance trek is an opportunity for Amherst College sophomores to explore career opportunities in the financial services industry in Boston during inter-term (January 16 - 20, 2023).
This small, selective group of students will spend 4+ days during interterm discovering the nuances and various career paths available in the financial services industry including boutique investment banks, divisions of bulge bracket investment banks and a particular focus on the buy-side of the industry (asset management firms, hedge funds, and private equity firms). This is an experiential learning opportunity that replicates life in the financial services industry in Boston. Students will visit approximately 15 employers and network with 50+ alumni and be expected to maintain a fast-paced agenda filled with informational discussions, employer site visits, networking dinners and receptions. Each morning will begin with a 7am de-briefing and preparation session.
Selected students for this trek will:
- Clarify career focus through greater understanding of the financial services industry and the myriad of opportunities and career paths available
- Increase marketability to employers through acquisition of industry knowledge including a holistic view of the industry and its components
- Make connections with employers, alumni and friends of the college
- Learn about the wide variety of internships, jobs, and careers in the finance industry
- Hone effective internship and job search skills, including networking and interviewing
- Gain exposure to the key trends, issues, challenges, and opportunities in the industry
Because of the generosity of our alumni, the Loeb Center, there is no cost to students other than personal incidentals. The college will cover transportation, housing, and most meals.
Required qualifications:
- Applicants must have standing as a sophomore (class of 2025)
- Demonstrated interest in exploring a career in finance
Program expectations:
- Mandatory participation in pre-departure orientation on December 4, 2022 (9am – 2pm)
- Completion of pre-departure research assignments
- Full engagement in all facilitated group discussions, conversations with alumni, and visits to sites
- Participation in a post-trip debrief session on approximately Feb. 3, 2023
- Those accepted into the program will need to sign a contract committing to the program
Application process:
This is a competitive application process that has 3 steps.
Step 1: Apply online via Handshake. Your application must include:
a. Resume
b. Word/PDF document responding to the questions below (Upload as “Other Document” in Handshake)
Step 2: All applications are screened and will participate in a group discussion. You will be asked to select your preferred dates/times when you submit your application in Handshake.
Participants will be notified prior to Thanksgiving Break if they are selected to participate in the Trek.
NOTE: You may also apply for the NYC Finance Trek (see details in Handshake). Although you will be
considered for both, you may only participate in one.
For questions, contact Stephanie Hockman (SHockman@amherst.edu.)
Application Questions:
Please answer the following questions in a Word document and attach to your application in Handshake.
1. Name
2. Class year
3. Major (if known)
4. Hometown
5. List any activities or clubs you participate in at Amherst College
6. Why are you applying to participate in the Boston Finance Trek? Include what you hope to gain from attending this Trek and what you hope to learn that you do not already know.
7. If you could meet one senior leader at a financial services company, who would it be and why?
8. In 100 words or less, pitch me your favorite company or industry.