Alejandro Morales ’21 credits the hands-on experience and mentorship he received at Ship for launching his career. Set to graduate this spring, the dual major in finance and economics has already accepted a position as an analyst with the investment management firm Loomis Sayles.
“The Investment Management Program (IMP) gave a complete hands-on real world experience of how to manage a portfolio. Being able to obtain the Bloomberg Market Concept terminal certification was also a huge competitive advantage when looking for a job,” said Morales.
IMP allows senior finance majors within the John L. Grove College of Business to be the sole portfolio managers, with oversight by the finance professors, of a real dollar endowment fund. The experience prepares students in the areas of teamwork, presentation skills and analytical skills.
Beyond the classroom, Morales is thankful for the support he received from Ship’s Career Mentoring and Professional Development Center and Alix Rouby, director of internships. From job shadowing to interview and resume preparation, Morales felt prepared to enter the job market.
And while he’s excited for what’s next, he plans to stay connected with Ship to help first-generation students like himself, navigate the college experience.
“I was in their shoes not that long ago and I want to help them and mentor them to carve a successful path through Shippensburg University, and succeed in their future careers,” he explained.
His hope is that future students find the same opportunities, support and friendships he says were the best part of his time at Ship.
“Enjoy every second here at Ship and take nothing for granted because in a blink of an eye, it’s over,” he said.
