First Person: Alumnus Vincent Nuno Discusses His Journey as a Transfer Student

Vincent Nuno(Business Administration, 2023)  transferred to Cal Poly from Allan Hancock College.

I chose to transfer to Cal Poly both to stay local and for a hands-on university experience. With much support from professors and guidance counselors, the journey was as seamless as possible.

Some of the challenges that I faced as a transfer student were trouble securing internships and being behind in coursework on day one. However, with hard work and determination, I was able to remain a competitive finance student

I chose to major in business administration with a financial management concentration because I see the value that finance brings. It helps to create a well-functioning economy and bring peace of mind to families. Plus, I was inspired by both my mother and uncle, who worked in commercial lending.

One of the greatest challenges that I faced was not being able to secure an internship for portfolio management or investment analysis. That was one of the reasons I decided to pursue the CFA Institute Research Competition as my senior project. I chose this senior project in hopes to stand out to employers. In addition,  I knew that I wanted to work in the investment industry.

Passing the CFA Level I exam (February 2023) made all of my long hours of studying worthwhile and made me motivated to continue on to the CFA Level II exam. I was also able to connect with other passionate finance students who were pursuing the same senior project.

Upon graduation, it was challenging to find a position as an investment analyst or in portfolio management. After months of receiving rejection letters, I accepted a position in a call center at a retirement investment company. It was not the job that I imagined I would have upon graduation, but it was at least in the investment arena. After a few months went by in the call center and through the help of a wonderful professor, I secured my dream job after college. I accepted a position as an associate in the portfolio management division of an investment firm. Now, my finance aspirations are to become a senior portfolio manager, pass the CFA Level III Exam this August, and help clients achieve their financial goals.

Although I was heavily challenged as a transfer student, the difficulties made the journey that much more worthwhile. I am beyond grateful for all of the experiences and doors that the Orfalea College of Business has opened for me!

You can support transfer students like Vincent Nuno by giving to the Dean’s Excellence Fund. 

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