Alternate Tracks in Finance Panel - Tips, Tricks, and Takeaways

Mariam hajjar

Earlier this week, we hosted a panel for freshmen and sophomores navigating the often overwhelming task of landing a summer internship. I organized this event because, as a sophomore with an interest in consulting, I’ve come to understand how limited—and fiercely competitive—opportunities in the field can be. While I know I want to gain internship experience this summer. But if not consulting, then what? And more importantly, how do I begin identifying opportunities that are the right fit for my career trajectories and goals? This panel aimed to address these questions and highlight other paths to success in the corporate realm.

The Alternate Tracks in Finance Panel featured speakers from diverse professional backgrounds, each with unique stories to share. From SPRINT opportunities offered through the career center to roles in product management and startups, their experiences were incredibly inspiring and provided me with useful resources. Despite their different paths, one thing was clear: they all found creative ways to make the most out of their freshman or sophomore year. It was reassuring to hear that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach—just people figuring it out as they go. There’s no singular, “correct” way to approach career-building in your early years. Instead, it’s about exploring, experimenting, and embracing the learning process.

For me, the most valuable takeaway was understanding the critical role networking plays in securing internships. Nearly all the panelists found their opportunities through personal connections—whether via friends, casual coffee chats, or even family referrals. While networking can seem intimidating, the panel offered practical steps to demystify the process. Some tips they mentioned were doing some research before reaching out, following up once connecting, and asking for referrals.

The panelists also shared candid advice about rejection and ghosting while networking, reminding us that these experiences are a normal part of the process—not a reflection of our value. As one speaker put it, networking becomes more intuitive the more you practice. Even if a specific connection doesn’t lead to an immediate opportunity, every conversation expands your knowledge and perspective.

Ultimately, this event left me feeling more motivated and less alone in the internship search process. There’s no “perfect” career path—each step, no matter how small, contributes to your growth and development.