The Power of Pivoting, Saying Yes, and Staying Flexible: Career Lessons from a Global Investment Firm
What does an investment firm actually do?
For many young people, finance can feel like an intimidating industry; one that's difficult to understand and even harder to imagine yourself working in.
Girls With Impact participants discovered something different during the latest stop on the Summer of Success Tour, where they visited a global investment firm to explore the many career paths that exist inside the finance industry.
The afternoon began with an introduction to the company and the important role investment firms play in helping clients grow and manage their investments. Participants then heard directly from professionals across multiple departments before putting their networking skills into practice during a speed networking session with employees.
The experience offered much more than an introduction to finance. Participants walked away with practical career advice they can apply in any industry.
Careers in Finance Extend Far Beyond Investing
One of the biggest surprises of the afternoon for participants was learning just how many different careers exist within an investment firm.
Panelists represented a wide range of roles, including operations, accounting, investor relations, broker relations, corporate access, and philanthropy, demonstrating that successful investment firms rely on professionals with diverse backgrounds and skill sets.
For participants interested in business but unsure exactly where they fit, the message was reassuring: there isn't just one way to build a career in finance.
The Best Career Opportunities Begin When You Say “Yes”
Throughout the discussion, panelists encouraged participants to stay open to opportunities, even when they don't feel completely prepared.
One employee encouraged participants to raise their hands, ask questions, and volunteer for new experiences, reminding them that confidence often comes after taking the first step, not before.
Another employee encouraged participants to not be afraid to ask for help when needed, and told participants that Human Resource teams often have great training resources to help you get going in the right direction.
Whether it's an internship, networking event, or informational interview, the panel reiterated that every experience offers something valuable if you're willing to learn.
Career Growth Comes from Asking Questions
Several panelists emphasized that curiosity is one of the most valuable qualities a young professional can have.
They encouraged participants to seek out conversations with as many people as possible and to ask as many questions as they can.
He also reminded attendees that careers aren't always linear, and to not be afraid of change or the understanding that perhaps a certain path isn’t the right fit for you.
Rather than viewing career changes as setbacks, panelists encouraged participants to see them as opportunities to learn, grow, and discover where they truly belong.
Finding the Right Career Is About More Than the Job
While technical skills are important, panelists emphasized that finding the right career is also about finding the right people and culture.
They encouraged participants to look beyond job titles when evaluating opportunities, reminding them to be open-minded and try to connect with people at the company you're considering joining.
Professional Networking Opens Doors
After the panel discussion, participants had the opportunity to meet directly with employees during a speed networking session.
The conversations allowed students and graduates to practice introducing themselves, ask career questions, and build meaningful professional connections in a supportive environment.
For many participants, it was their first opportunity to network with professionals in the finance industry, giving them the space to turn advice into action.
As the panelists reminded attendees, growth doesn't always come from one perfect experience. Sometimes it comes from simply showing up, asking thoughtful questions, and making one new connection.
An Experience That Inspired Future Leaders
For participant Angela Bai, who will begin college this fall, the event reinforced one lesson above all others.
"My biggest takeaway was to be open-minded. Being open-minded will really help me prepare for a stronger and brighter future."
Hearing about the panelists' career pivots and unexpected journeys helped her realize that success doesn't require having every step planned in advance.
Her reflection captured the spirit of the afternoon: careers are built through curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace opportunities you never expected.
Invest In Yourself with Growth Opportunities
This event demonstrated that finance is about far more than numbers. It's about problem-solving, collaboration, communication, resilience, and lifelong learning.
As the Summer of Success Tour concludes, the opportunities to grow, learn, and stand out do not! Girls With Impact’s online, live programs are available year-round to help young women learn and grow their skillsets so they have the confidence, capabilities, and connections to succeed in college, career, and whatever they set their minds to.
GWI programs are available at no cost, which means they only require the investment of your time, your energy, and your talent.
Learn more about our Innovation Academy and Career Accelerator programs today - because the most important investment you can make is investing in yourself.