14 answers
Zack
Student
Tyler, Texas
1
Question
Updated
4501 views
What kind of Job should i apply for starting off as a college student?
Im majoring in Business and im wanting to eventually become an invesment manager but im not sure what job to apply for to be able to get my foot in the door with zero experience. Not only that but a job that would allow me to work around my classes
14 answers
Katie Patton, PMP, CSM
Financial Ops, Vendor Mgmt, IT Project Mgmt, IT Delivery Mgmt
6
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Katie’s Answer
Hi Zack, to do well as an investment manager, you need energy, passion, and ambition. Skills like entrepreneurship, critical thinking, and decision-making are also important. Since you mentioned having no experience and needing to balance your classes, try talking to your professors, classmates, friends, and family for advice on building these skills. You might start a small part-time business or join an investment club to learn from experienced members. They can also help you network. You might find https://www.betterinvesting.org/ useful. Good luck!
Thank you so much!
Zack
Paul Marcel-Rene
Property Manager
20
Answers
Akron, Ohio
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Majoring in Business is a great foundation for becoming an investment manager, and it’s smart to start looking for ways to gain relevant experience early on. With zero experience, one of the best entry-level positions you can pursue is a **bank teller** at a local bank or credit union. While it may seem basic, this role offers hands-on exposure to financial transactions, customer service, and banking operations—skills that build a strong base for a future in investment management. More importantly, it gives you the chance to network directly with professionals in the financial services sector, including investment bankers or advisors who may work out of the same branch or be connected to the bank's wealth management division.
Teller positions are often part-time and offer flexible scheduling, which makes them ideal for students balancing coursework. Once you’ve gained trust and proven your work ethic, you can ask to shadow or assist with tasks related to investments or financial planning, or even move into a personal banking or customer relationship role.
Additionally, look into paid internships or part-time roles in financial advising firms, accounting offices, or insurance companies. Even administrative work in those settings can help you learn the language and rhythm of the industry. Focus on building relationships, learning terminology, and understanding financial products—each step gets you closer to your investment management goal.
Teller positions are often part-time and offer flexible scheduling, which makes them ideal for students balancing coursework. Once you’ve gained trust and proven your work ethic, you can ask to shadow or assist with tasks related to investments or financial planning, or even move into a personal banking or customer relationship role.
Additionally, look into paid internships or part-time roles in financial advising firms, accounting offices, or insurance companies. Even administrative work in those settings can help you learn the language and rhythm of the industry. Focus on building relationships, learning terminology, and understanding financial products—each step gets you closer to your investment management goal.
Rohit Kothary
5
Answers
Shelton, Connecticut
Updated
Rohit’s Answer
Before choosing a major, try different ones during your first two years of college. This will help you discover what interests you the most. It's okay to change your major a few times.
Debra Denzer
Consulting
4
Answers
Hudson, Wisconsin
Updated
Debra’s Answer
Reach out to your school's career services office. Many companies offer summer internships where you can gain practical experience and apply what you've learned in class. These opportunities also help you understand what working in your field is like. During the school year, join student groups related to your interests, like finance clubs. Having a job during the school year is also beneficial. I appreciate seeing a college student manage a job, participate in extracurricular activities, and complete summer internships when I conduct interviews. Good luck!
David Cox
Internal Audit
6
Answers
Sunnyvale, California
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Zack,
Lots of schools have student investment funds where you can choose stocks and present them to the board. It's a fantastic way to get real-world experience in investing and finance.
Also, try to connect with your finance and accounting professors. They can be amazing mentors and often have ties to professional groups like FEI and IIA. These groups often offer free memberships for students and work with universities on research and events.
You're doing great, keep moving forward!
Lots of schools have student investment funds where you can choose stocks and present them to the board. It's a fantastic way to get real-world experience in investing and finance.
Also, try to connect with your finance and accounting professors. They can be amazing mentors and often have ties to professional groups like FEI and IIA. These groups often offer free memberships for students and work with universities on research and events.
You're doing great, keep moving forward!
Amelia Mindich
Product Specialist
2
Answers
Rochester, New York
Updated
Amelia’s Answer
Entry-level or temporary jobs can lead to unexpected opportunities and valuable connections. Try to explore various options and be open to new possibilities, especially if you have a good rapport with the hiring manager and can learn from them. During my undergrad summers, I had three different jobs, each teaching me something important. Some even helped me realize which careers were not right for me. Aim for jobs in your field, but if that's not possible, stay flexible and open-minded.
Wyatt .
Retired Corporate Executive
54
Answers
United States
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Zack,
The best jobs to apply for are ones that build relevant experience while fitting around your class schedule. Consider campus jobs in the financial aid or accounting offices, which offer flexibility and exposure to financial systems. Part-time roles as a bank teller or personal banker can also provide valuable experience in customer finance and basic financial products. If you can find one, a part-time or remote internship at a small investment or wealth management firm even in an administrative role is a great way to get your foot in the door. Also, getting involved in your school’s investment or finance club, or joining case competitions, will strengthen your resume and help you stand out to future employers.
In addition to applying for jobs, start building skills that investment firms look for. Learn Excel, financial modeling, and start familiarizing yourself with markets through resources like Investopedia, The Economist, or Bloomberg. Consider beginner certifications like Bloomberg Market Concepts, which look great on a student resume. Networking is also key reach out to alumni or local professionals for quick chats, and don’t hesitate to apply to internships that seem slightly out of reach. Employers value initiative and a willingness to learn, even over experience at this stage.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
The best jobs to apply for are ones that build relevant experience while fitting around your class schedule. Consider campus jobs in the financial aid or accounting offices, which offer flexibility and exposure to financial systems. Part-time roles as a bank teller or personal banker can also provide valuable experience in customer finance and basic financial products. If you can find one, a part-time or remote internship at a small investment or wealth management firm even in an administrative role is a great way to get your foot in the door. Also, getting involved in your school’s investment or finance club, or joining case competitions, will strengthen your resume and help you stand out to future employers.
In addition to applying for jobs, start building skills that investment firms look for. Learn Excel, financial modeling, and start familiarizing yourself with markets through resources like Investopedia, The Economist, or Bloomberg. Consider beginner certifications like Bloomberg Market Concepts, which look great on a student resume. Networking is also key reach out to alumni or local professionals for quick chats, and don’t hesitate to apply to internships that seem slightly out of reach. Employers value initiative and a willingness to learn, even over experience at this stage.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
Updated
Scott’s Answer
Zack
I firmly believe that gaining real-world experience in a field that captivates your interest is crucial for ensuring you have made the right choice in your area of study. This experience not only enhances your understanding but also encourages you to contemplate how you can effectively apply the knowledge you've acquired after graduation.
If you find yourself drawn to the world of investments, I recommend actively seeking internships or part-time positions at local banks, where you can immerse yourself in the day-to-day operations of the financial sector. Additionally, consider leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to establish a professional network with local financial advisors. These connections may lead to valuable part-time opportunities or mentorship that can guide you on your career path.
Don't hesitate to reach out and ask for advice or assistance. You'll often discover that many individuals are more than willing to share their insights, offer support, or provide guidance to help you navigate your journey in the finance industry.
I firmly believe that gaining real-world experience in a field that captivates your interest is crucial for ensuring you have made the right choice in your area of study. This experience not only enhances your understanding but also encourages you to contemplate how you can effectively apply the knowledge you've acquired after graduation.
If you find yourself drawn to the world of investments, I recommend actively seeking internships or part-time positions at local banks, where you can immerse yourself in the day-to-day operations of the financial sector. Additionally, consider leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to establish a professional network with local financial advisors. These connections may lead to valuable part-time opportunities or mentorship that can guide you on your career path.
Don't hesitate to reach out and ask for advice or assistance. You'll often discover that many individuals are more than willing to share their insights, offer support, or provide guidance to help you navigate your journey in the finance industry.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
833
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Speak with your professors about internships. The solid instructors have ties with the business world that could open a door for you. You can also talk with the staff in your departments office. Most schools also have a career services department which could be helpful.
Last but not least, check in with your alumni group for the campus.
Last but not least, check in with your alumni group for the campus.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2431
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know you would like to become an investment manager.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Choose relevant subjects in the college, eg financial analysis, accounting, treasury, asset & liquidity management, etc
2. Join the relevant clubs and extra curriculum activities in colleges
3. Explore any intern opportunities in asset management, investment bank, etc.
4. Explore the requirements of relevant professional qualifications, eg, CFA, CPA, Financial Advisory, etc
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Choose relevant subjects in the college, eg financial analysis, accounting, treasury, asset & liquidity management, etc
2. Join the relevant clubs and extra curriculum activities in colleges
3. Explore any intern opportunities in asset management, investment bank, etc.
4. Explore the requirements of relevant professional qualifications, eg, CFA, CPA, Financial Advisory, etc
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Rebecca offered great recommendations! If you are not able to attain a full time opportunity, then internships and associations to clubs/groups is a good way to start.
Laura Carton, MBA
Aravind C
39
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Aravind’s Answer
Hi Zack,
When you start studying, it's a good idea to work in a college or library. This gives you time to focus without distractions. College admin jobs are also a good option. Think about what interests you and what might help your future career.
When you start studying, it's a good idea to work in a college or library. This gives you time to focus without distractions. College admin jobs are also a good option. Think about what interests you and what might help your future career.
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
HI, Zack !
Are you actually in college yet or do your start in the Fall ? Have you applied for Federal Student Financial Aid ? This can mean a world of difference in the appropriate advice you can receive.
If you are a full time or going to be a full time student, you should not be planning a career job just yet. College will prepare you for that and things don't happen when we want them to. You will need to completely focus on college, your studies, assignments and projects and possible volunteer work. You will have to ask your professors if they place you in an Internship in your Junior and Senior years. As you move along with your studies, you will start to become aware of the career choices and options and begin to discover where your niche will be in the future. Right now is way too soon. Let the process flow and make strong connections at the Business Department. That way you'll be aware of opportunities as you learn.
The Work Study Program, applied for on your Federal Student Financial Aid Form, would be the most ideal and beneficial and quickest way to get a job. Speak with your financial aid office about Work Study and when the next time is that you can apply for it. You can work on campus, saving on the commute to an off-campus job, and definitely work around your class schedule. You can work in the Business Department, Computer Lab, Campus Store, Student Services Office, Health and Wellness Offices or any office that is connected to business. This would be the best work scenario for you just starting with no experience and you wouldn't have to wait around to be hired for an off campus job. If you can't apply for Work Study for a while, get experience doing some volunteer work in the meantime.
I always like to emphasize: being in college alone will present opportunities to you. You do not need to micro-manage working, the focus is on studying right now. You are not going to expect it, but opportunities will come up for you. Take me for instance. It was my first semester in college and a student approached me to audition for a one act play that she was to direct. Although I was enrolled in an Acting class, I had never acted in a role before. I got a part and that was the first play I ever did. It was not planned to happen by me, it just happened. You may need to spend an extraordinary amount of time in your Business Department and make strong connections with staff and other students. This is how things happen. People getting to know you and being around the conversations and information connected to your future career.
Since you do not have any experience at this time and you haven't been fully informed yet at your college, you can start reading Investment Management Journals. The Journal of Investment Management will teach you about theory and practice of investment management and you can read about the research. Also start reading The Journal of Investing. This journal has research information about investment management, asset allocation, performance measurement, benchmarking, mutual funds, investing strategies such as 130/30 funds, global allocation, and practical investment ideas and portfolio strategies for the institutional buy-side such as pension funds. They are quarterly journals and reading them may give you a heads up on what you eventually will need to be familiar with as an Investment Manager.
So, try not to push mainstream employment just yet. Talk to a financial aid officer at your college about Work Study jobs. Let things proceed naturally as you make lots of time for and strong connections in your major department on campus. Really connect in your major department so you will be aware of local opportunities and academic opportunities.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best moving forward !
Are you actually in college yet or do your start in the Fall ? Have you applied for Federal Student Financial Aid ? This can mean a world of difference in the appropriate advice you can receive.
If you are a full time or going to be a full time student, you should not be planning a career job just yet. College will prepare you for that and things don't happen when we want them to. You will need to completely focus on college, your studies, assignments and projects and possible volunteer work. You will have to ask your professors if they place you in an Internship in your Junior and Senior years. As you move along with your studies, you will start to become aware of the career choices and options and begin to discover where your niche will be in the future. Right now is way too soon. Let the process flow and make strong connections at the Business Department. That way you'll be aware of opportunities as you learn.
The Work Study Program, applied for on your Federal Student Financial Aid Form, would be the most ideal and beneficial and quickest way to get a job. Speak with your financial aid office about Work Study and when the next time is that you can apply for it. You can work on campus, saving on the commute to an off-campus job, and definitely work around your class schedule. You can work in the Business Department, Computer Lab, Campus Store, Student Services Office, Health and Wellness Offices or any office that is connected to business. This would be the best work scenario for you just starting with no experience and you wouldn't have to wait around to be hired for an off campus job. If you can't apply for Work Study for a while, get experience doing some volunteer work in the meantime.
I always like to emphasize: being in college alone will present opportunities to you. You do not need to micro-manage working, the focus is on studying right now. You are not going to expect it, but opportunities will come up for you. Take me for instance. It was my first semester in college and a student approached me to audition for a one act play that she was to direct. Although I was enrolled in an Acting class, I had never acted in a role before. I got a part and that was the first play I ever did. It was not planned to happen by me, it just happened. You may need to spend an extraordinary amount of time in your Business Department and make strong connections with staff and other students. This is how things happen. People getting to know you and being around the conversations and information connected to your future career.
Since you do not have any experience at this time and you haven't been fully informed yet at your college, you can start reading Investment Management Journals. The Journal of Investment Management will teach you about theory and practice of investment management and you can read about the research. Also start reading The Journal of Investing. This journal has research information about investment management, asset allocation, performance measurement, benchmarking, mutual funds, investing strategies such as 130/30 funds, global allocation, and practical investment ideas and portfolio strategies for the institutional buy-side such as pension funds. They are quarterly journals and reading them may give you a heads up on what you eventually will need to be familiar with as an Investment Manager.
So, try not to push mainstream employment just yet. Talk to a financial aid officer at your college about Work Study jobs. Let things proceed naturally as you make lots of time for and strong connections in your major department on campus. Really connect in your major department so you will be aware of local opportunities and academic opportunities.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best moving forward !
Thank you so much for setting time aside to help me! This made things really clear
Zack
You are very welcome, Zack ! I am happy to help out !
Michelle M.
Adonawit Belay
Entrepreneurship
1
Answer
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Updated
Adonawit’s Answer
Well, Zack frankly speaking, I don't support going to university/college, because i know that it's not necessary for success plus it's don't teach you the main things that you need in life like fincial independency, how to solve real life problems and challenges and failurity you know, so to know about business, there is millions of books about business, investment, whatever my interest is, ain't nobody succeeded because they got to university, university teach you to be an employee not self employed person, so I recommend not joining to university but since you already did, chose what make you happy, because Noone knows you better than yourself, you know. Good luck! Adonawit Belay
Susanne S.
Graphic Designer
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Susanne’s Answer
Hi Zack,
Starting with no experience can feel tough, but you've got this!
Focus on finding a few local companies that match your interests in finance and investing. Visit their websites to see if they have a career section. If not, give them a call to find out how to apply for entry-level roles.
Learn about the job titles and structure in your field. This will help you understand the industry better.
Set up a LinkedIn profile with all your relevant details. Use it to find and connect with people at the companies you’re interested in. While not everyone will reply, some will guide you if you clearly share your goals. Keep your messages short and friendly.
Reach out to family and friends to see if they know anyone in the industry. Connecting on LinkedIn can show you their networks. Ask for introductions if possible. Even if it's not a perfect match, they might know someone at the companies you’re interested in. Networking is still one of the best ways to find a job.
Attend industry events to meet people and build connections.
Finance professionals often network on golf courses, so if you know anyone there, it could be a good opportunity.
Lastly, you can try to apply for a micro internship at https://www.parkerdewey.com/career-launchers
Let me know how things go—good luck with your job search!
Starting with no experience can feel tough, but you've got this!
Focus on finding a few local companies that match your interests in finance and investing. Visit their websites to see if they have a career section. If not, give them a call to find out how to apply for entry-level roles.
Learn about the job titles and structure in your field. This will help you understand the industry better.
Set up a LinkedIn profile with all your relevant details. Use it to find and connect with people at the companies you’re interested in. While not everyone will reply, some will guide you if you clearly share your goals. Keep your messages short and friendly.
Reach out to family and friends to see if they know anyone in the industry. Connecting on LinkedIn can show you their networks. Ask for introductions if possible. Even if it's not a perfect match, they might know someone at the companies you’re interested in. Networking is still one of the best ways to find a job.
Attend industry events to meet people and build connections.
Finance professionals often network on golf courses, so if you know anyone there, it could be a good opportunity.
Lastly, you can try to apply for a micro internship at https://www.parkerdewey.com/career-launchers
Let me know how things go—good luck with your job search!
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