Students Visit Top Global Firms and Explore Careers in New York’s Financial Hub

A group of Alabama A&M University students recently stepped into the center of the global financial world, traveling to New York City for the Financial Management Association Finance Leaders Conference and a series of corporate visits designed to bridge classroom learning with real-world experience.

The students traveled March 2–6 to attend the conference, hosted at St. John’s University at Cooper Union, where they engaged with finance professionals, attended panels and explored emerging trends shaping global markets. In addition to the conference, the group visited five major financial institutions: the New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq MarketSite, Bloomberg, JPMorgan Chase & Co. and AllianceBernstein.

The trip was organized through the Department of Accounting and Finance and supported by the University’s Financial Management Association student chapter, which has built a strong reputation for excellence. In 2024, the chapter earned the Superior Chapter Award from FMA, a distinction awarded to fewer than 10% of more than 175 active student chapters nationwide.

Ten students representing majors in finance, accounting and business participated in the experience, accompanied by Dr. Qian Shen, chair and professor of economics and finance, and Dr. Felicia Farrar, professor of accounting and MBA program director. The group included students from across the United States and internationally, reflecting the University’s diverse academic community.

Throughout the week, students gained firsthand insight into how major financial institutions operate, from trading floors and data analytics platforms to investment management strategies. The visits also provided opportunities to network with industry professionals and learn about career pathways in finance, technology and global markets.

Beyond professional development, students explored some of New York’s most iconic landmarks, including the Charging Bull on Wall Street, Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge and neighborhoods throughout Manhattan, further enriching their experience in one of the world’s leading financial centers.

For Emilio Angel Gallon, a senior finance major from Bogotá, Colombia, the trip marked his third time attending the conference and visiting New York through Alabama A&M. A Presidential Scholar and co-founder of the University’s FMA student chapter, he will graduate in May 2026 and plans to begin a full-time role with Bank of America in New York.

The experience, he said, reflects the transformative opportunities available to students who take full advantage of what the University offers.

“Experiences like this highlight why college is worth it — they can be game changers for students.”

Back row, from left, Emilio Angel Gallon, Sydney Moss, Tyler Dailey, Kortney Adkins and Ayoola Akinlawon. Front row, from left, are Dr. Qian Shen, Eric Wilson, Classie Stringfellow, Madison Foster and Laura Avila-Marquez.