Name: Alec Aragon

Year: Sophomore

Major(s): Economics

Minor(s): Business Institutions Program

CFS Class: Business Field Studies

Employer: Morgan Stanley

A little over a year ago, I was a freshman at Indiana University, studying at The Kelley School of Business. Envisioning my college experience, I expected to be challenged by my school; to be confronted with alternative viewpoints, to be pushed academically, and to be forced out of my comfort zone. Upon realizing I could fulfill these goals to a higher level elsewhere, I began to look for a new institution I could call home for the next 3 years. Northwestern was by far my top contender, and one of the largest drawing points was this very program; CFS.

I’m glad to say the program was everything I expected it to be. Working as a Private Wealth Management Intern with the Lanigan/Najjar Group at Morgan Stanley has been an absolutely wonderful experience. Starting with my team, I work with two wonderful women, Mimi and Jennifer, both Associates, who provide the majority of my day-to-day work. Leading the team are Eliah Najjar and Robert Lanigan, who are mainly responsible for the sourcing of new clients and the management of those individual’s asset allocations. Working with such a small team that handles over $1.4 billion in assets, I was reminded daily that my role and responsibilities were integral to the success of the group. Whether it was researching potential prospects, working on asset allocations, or creating pitch-books, my work was continuously scrutinized at the highest level and presented first hand to our clients. This internship has taught me the importance of an intense attention to detail, of market knowledge, and of genuine relationships in the financial industry.

To anyone considering CFS, do not hesitate! In the span of three months, I have gained a greater sense of my future career path, a great set of experiences to discuss for the upcoming recruiting process, and a group of people I’d consider great friends, both in the classroom and the office.