Each spring semester, DFE's Student Advisory Committee organizes the Demystifying Finance Series, which is designed to increase first-years' understanding of finance careers in a zero pressure environment. The series' four sessions cover major job roles in the finance industry, how to pursue a finance career, and finance resources on campus.
Each session is led by seniors who have gone through the rigorous finance recruiting process and done internships. No knowledge about finance is necessary or assumed, and attendees are encouraged to ask any and all questions.
2025 Series Schedule
Session 1: Breaking into Finance: Many Different Pathways
Thursday, February 13, 6-7 PM, Classroom Building 103, East Campus
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Interested in finance yet have no clue how or where to start? This session covers everything about all types of career opportunities in the industry, ranging from investment banking and sales & trading to wealth management and private equity. We detail roles, skills, and opportunities that define financial perspectives. Whether you are a complete novice or already considering a career in finance, this session will help you understand your options and discover how to get started at Duke. This is a unique opportunity to gain insider insights that will be a great first step into your future in finance!
Session 2: Everything Investment Banking: Your Roadmap
Thursday, February 20, 6-7 PM, Classroom Building 103, East Campus
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Everything Investment Banking is your all-in-one guide to understanding what the job really entails, how to ace the interview process, and what makes a standout candidate. We’ll cover the ins and outs of recruiting, key skills for success, exit opportunities, and the ideal timeline to land an offer. Whether you are just exploring or already gearing up for recruitment, this session will give you the knowledge and strategy to break into banking with confidence. Don't miss out on this essential deep dive!
Session 3: Everything Markets: Careers in Sales, Trading, and Investing
Thursday, February 27, 6-7 PM, Classroom Building 103, East Campus
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Want to break into the world of financial markets? Everything Markets is your all-in-one guide to careers in trading, sales, and investing—spanning both the sell side and buy side. We’ll explore roles in sales & trading, hedge funds, quant trading, proprietary trading, asset management, and more. Learn what each path entails, how to stand out in the recruiting process, and what skills top candidates need. From market-making to high-frequency trading to discretionary investing, this session will help you navigate the vast world of markets and find the right fit for you. Don’t miss out!
Session 4: Everything Private Markets: Careers in PE, Growth Equity, VC & Private Credit
Tuesday, March 18, 6-7 PM, Classroom Building 103, East Campus
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Looking to break into the world of private market investing? Everything Private Markets is your ultimate guide to careers in private equity, growth equity, venture capital, and private credit. We’ll dive into what each of these roles entails, how investors evaluate deals, and the key skills needed to stand out. You’ll also get insights on the recruiting process, interview prep, industry trends, and exit opportunities. Whether you’re interested in backing high-growth startups, leveraged buyouts, or alternative credit strategies, this session will help you navigate your path into the buy-side. Don’t miss out!
First-years, your older peers are valuable allies and mentors in pursuing finance while at Duke, so don't miss this opportunity to meet them, learn from them, and become empowered by them in your path to a finance career.