Welcome to the Finance Community!
This community is your resource to explore the field of finance. This page will provide information that will assist your learning about the industry through events, online tools and curated news updates. Additionally, you can gain access to networking, internship and job opportunities to advance your career. We look forward to helping you make informed academic and professional decisions by finding meaningful ways to connect with the Finance Community at The W. A. Franke College of Business.
Financial services, such as banks and large financial institutions, recruits earlier than any other industry. Internship opportunities are hired a year in advance and are a great way of being recognized for your skills and abilities. Interns who perform well typically are extended full time offers. If you are interested in the financial sector, you should build your company target list now and begin researching recruitment timeline so that you do not miss important opportunities
It is important to take proactive steps now to ensure success towards this professional goal. Begin by writing a résumé in order to increase your chances of getting an internship or first job. Your résumé should highlight your experience, showcase your hard and soft skills and connect your skills and abilities to the job market. A well-crafted résumé should help you stand out amongst others!
Schedule an appointment with one of our Career Coaches to help you along your path!
Build Your Competitive Edge: Beyond the Classroom
Standing out in today’s job market requires more than strong grades. Employers actively seek candidates who’ve gained practical experience and demonstrated initiative outside the classroom. Here’s how to build a compelling portfolio of experiences that will set you apart from other applicants. Don’t forget to add these to your résumé!
Don’t wait until graduation to start building your professional profile. The experiences you gain today become the competitive advantages that land you tomorrow’s opportunities.
Hands-On Experience Opportunities
Get real-world experience without leaving campus with Forage and Parker Dewey through this website. These platforms offer company-sponsored simulations and short-term projects that let you work on actual business challenges. Complete projects from top employers and add legitimate professional experience to your résumé.
Get started: frankecareer.nau.edu/experiences/
Your NAU email gives you free access to Udemy’s extensive library of industry-recognized certification courses. From digital marketing to data analysis, these credentials demonstrate your commitment to professional development and can significantly strengthen your candidacy.
Access training: in.nau.edu/its/udemy/
The internship application cycle starts earlier than most students realize. Many companies begin posting summer positions in August for the following year. Start your search early through Handshake to access exclusive opportunities and increase your chances of landing competitive positions.
Browse opportunities: nau.joinhandshake.com/explore
The finance field is undergoing a significant technological transformation. Here are some key technologies that graduating university students should be familiar with:
- Financial modeling software:Â Excel remains a cornerstone, but specialized tools like Bloomberg Terminal, FactSet, and Capital IQ offer advanced features for financial analysis.
- Database management systems:
SQL is essential for working with large financial datasets.  - Data visualization tools: Tools like Tableau and Power BI are crucial for presenting financial data in a clear and impactful way.
Emerging Technologies
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning: These technologies are used for tasks like algorithmic trading, risk assessment, and fraud detection. Â
- Blockchain: Blockchain technology is revolutionizing financial services, with applications in areas like cryptocurrency, smart contracts, and supply chain finance. Â
- Big data analytics:Â Finance professionals need to be able to analyze large datasets to identify trends and make informed decisions.Â
- Cloud computing: Cloud-based financial software offers scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. Â
- Robotic process automation (RPA): RPA can automate repetitive tasks, freeing up finance professionals to focus on higher-value work. Â
Additional Skills
- Coding:Â Basic coding skills (Python, R) are becoming increasingly valuable for finance professionals.
- Financial analysis:Â A deep understanding of financial statements, ratios, and valuation methods is essential.
- Quantitative analysis: The ability to use quantitative methods to analyze financial data is crucial. Â
Access training through:
Join major-specific FCB student groups to build your professional network, develop leadership skills, and connect with industry professionals. These organizations often provide exclusive networking events, company visits, and mentorship opportunities.
Explore groups: frankecareer.nau.edu/organizations/
View a list of both on and off campus opportunities with NAU to start building your experience. These include hands on, real work situations that are gained through internships, externships, volunteering, case studies, project work and more. These experiences can be added to your résumé to show employers your skills.
Browse opportunities: https://frankecareer.nau.edu/resources/experiential-hands-on-learning-opportunities
The FCB CDO is here to support your journey:
- Discover opportunities that align with your career goals
- Review and refine your résumé to highlight new experiences
- Practice interview skills and build confidence
- Develop a strategic career plan that maximizes your potential
