Audrey Jones '24

Why Bryant?

I chose Bryant because of the business program. With the great network of alumni, I could see that no matter what major I chose, a good job opportunity would be available.

What else made Bryant stand out?

The community: Everyone here is nice. It’s very welcoming.

They’re also very involved on campus, and I thought the wide range of student organizations was a great way to get involved. I have loved getting to know new people and have been exposed to some great opportunities because of being a student here!

How did you settle on financial services as a major? 

It was a combination of two events. The first was my internship working for a financial advisor. I learned a lot about the industry. The second was my Introduction to Finance class. My professor really made me want to learn more, and I loved the class topics. I like how professionals in the field can be client-facing and help people have a better financial future.

Finance has many different applications in many different industries. No matter where you want to work, financial services is applicable.

Tell us more about your internship.

I worked at RBC Wealth Management. I answered phones and talked to clients to help maintain their accounts. I also opened new client accounts and made wealth plans to help determine the probability of them retiring successfully.

I’d like to be a financial advisor with my own book of business and get my CFP.

Any professors who have made an impact?

Professor Mara Derderian is a great professor and always willing to help. She is very passionate about finance.

How are you involved at Bryant outside the classroom?

I’m the vice president of the Wealth Management Association, a club that teaches real-life skills on how to manage your money. I’m also the president of the Creative Writing Club, which has three books of published stories from current students.