Careers in Economics & Finance (with BOW and ESSA)

On Wednesday 27th of August, the Finance Students’ Association (FSA), in collaboration with Banking on Women (BOW) and the Economics Student Society of Australia (ESSA), hosted the 'Careers in Economics & Finance' event at the Woodward Conference Centre.

The sold-out event was presented in a two-panel format, connecting students with professionals in various economics and finance-related roles, alongside the opportunity to network and ask their burning questions. Several firms were in attendance, ranging from bulge-bracket investment banks such as Goldman Sachs and UBS to government entities such as the Victorian Department of Treasury and Finance. Throughout both panel sessions, industry representatives discussed the practicalities of each sector, offering attendees unique insights that are not typically covered in university coursework. For example, the economics discussion emphasised the field’s quantitative rigour that lends itself to a greater prevalence of postgraduate studies amongst its workforce. Speakers also explored work opportunities in economics, such as policy analysis and economic forecasting.

The finance panel placed a strong emphasis on internships, discussing their importance as a complement to university studies and first entry into the finance world. Perhaps most interestingly, the panels noted the strong connection between both fields, wherein insights generated through economic analysis inform finance decision-making. Open-floor networking rounded out the evening, allowing attendees to meet representatives and ask various questions about the sectors. The broad scope of firms present made this a rare opportunity for students to compare pathways simultaneously and demystify their differences.

Thank you to our partners BOW, ESSA, our speakers, sponsors, and everyone who joined us on the evening!