Fourteen students from the Weatherhead School of Management’s Full-time MBA and Master of Finance Programs participated in a full-day company trek this spring in downtown Cleveland.
During the trek, the students walked to Bank of America, KeyBank and Fund That Flip, to gain insights on the current challenges and roles available in the financial and fintech disciplines. A City Trek is held each semester, but this was the first one with in-person office visits since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Each trek is purposefully created to include a variety of companies and divisions,” said Donna VanRooy, director of employer development at Weatherhead School. “When we are able to hold the session onsite it also gives students a sense of the company culture and working environment.”
The group met with a number of executives at each company and discussed challenges faced within the industry, different roles, and skills to focus on, as they start a new path in their career journey.
“Seeing how each organization chose to host us, what kinds of topics they felt were important in discussing, and their physical locations, gave me a better understanding of what I think is important for me when trying to find an employer after I graduate from Case Western Reserve,” said Kyle Regan, full-time MBA student. “I was even able to have some nice personal conversations with people that I hope will turn into long-term connections.”
Regan’s favorite part of the day was visiting Fund That Flip, a real estate fintech company that launched in 2014. “They had a lot of excitement and energy around their work and it was nice to hear about their lessons and successes as a growing company,” Regan said.
“At Weatherhead we prepare today's leaders for tomorrow's challenges,” said VanRooy. “The trek experience is just one way we ensure our students stay connected with the ongoing changes and opportunities in the marketplace.”
Learn more about Weatherhead School's Full-time MBA Program.