Sarah Graney

I came to Notre Dame with the intention of applying to the 5-year Engineering/MBA program offered to undergraduates in the College of Engineering. I had an interest in business but wanted to have a major that would allow me to develop strong mathematics and problem solving skills. Through participation in student run clubs and insight from senior mentors I decided to complete my engineering program then pursue a career in finance without a formal education in business. Participation in workshops and competitions sponsored by NDIGI has played a large role in helping me develop the skills necessary to become a competitive candidate for a career in investing.

Supplement to the Classroom

As a student outside of the Mendoza College of Business, all of my financial knowledge has come from the clubs here at Notre Dame and the real world experiences I could obtain through internships. With the help of NDIGI, I feel confident going in to a career in finance that I have the skills and resources to perform at my best. They have added so much expertise through mentors, workshops, and speaker series that any student at Notre Dame can become well versed in finance by participating.

Power of a Network

NDIGI has done a fantastic job of connecting students with alumni. The mentors I have been connected with for competitions and career advice have been excited to provide insight and are people I would never have had the opportunity to learn from without the help of Institute. The network of mentors involved have become an invaluable resource to the Notre Dame Investment Club as we participate in a growing list of competitions and have had a noticeable impact on the club's performance in competition. I am excited to see this network continue to grow and expand on the ways in which it can help students find a great career in finance and continue their learning process.

Push for Diversity

It has been very rewarding to help with, and begin to see the effects of, NDIGI's work to get more women involved in finance and direct investing. By creating the expectation that women be a part of teams for competitions and making a point to have equal representation, as well as sponsoring programs and clubs for women, such as Girls Who Invest and Smart Women Securities, I have been able to see a significant increase in the participation of women in student organizations across Mendoza.